Title,Contract Number,Agency,Branch,Program,Year,Phase,Award Amount,SBC,Street,Street 2,City,State,ZIP,Woman-Owned?,Minority-Owned?,HUBZone-Owned?,Contact Name,Contact Title,Contact Phone,Contact Email,Principal Investigator,PI Title,PI Phone,PI Email,Abstract
Low CSWAP Multi-Beam TCDL Antenna System,N68335-14-C-0025,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2014,1,79934.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael Sherry,President,(401) 295-0062,msherry@appliedradar.com,William Weedon,CEO,(401) 295-0062,wweedon@appliedradar.com,"Applied Radar proposes to develop a high-gain low cost, size, power and weight (low-CSWAP) tactical common data link (TCDL) antenna for the Firescout and Predator UAVs. The improved TCDL antenna will support 6 or more nodes of high-gain full-duplex communication at 21.42 MBPS in a star network configuration with 360 degree coverage out to 110 nm slant range. In Phase 1, we will design, fabricate and test a medium-gain multi-beam antenna that can close a 21.42 MBPS UAV-Ground link out to 110 nmi and a UAV-UAV link out to 50 nmi, which is equivalent in gain to the antenna currently being used, but which supports 6 simultaneous links and has built-in electronic beam switching. In Phase 2, we design, fab and test a high-gain antenna that can close the 21.42 MBPS UAV-UAV link out to 110 nmi, including the Az/El beam switching and control, for both uplink and downlink."
Multi-Band Dual-Aperture SATCOM Antenna for Rotary Wing Aircraft,N68335-14-C-0258,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2014,1,79999.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William Weedon,President/CEO,(401) 295-0062,wweedon@appliedradar.com,William Weedon,President/CEO,(401) 295-0062,wweedon@appliedradar.com,"A multi-band dual-aperture SATCOM antenna is proposed to support rotary-wing aircraft thru-rotor performance at X, Ku and Ka-bands including Ku-band TCDL as an option. Our proposed effort focuses on a low-cost design with reduced height and leverages existing aperture and radome technology from our prime contractor partner Lockheed-Martin. It also leverages existing digital modem technology developed at Applied Radar, as well as our experience in gimbal and controller design. In Phase 1, thru-rotor measurements will be performed with a test aircraft to assess and verify link-budget performance. Portions of the antenna and modem will be designed and fabricated. The Phase 1 Option will include design of the gimbal and controller, as well as additional antenna/modem design and testing. Phase 2 will include integration of the various components into a complete working antenna prototype meeting all of the frequency band requirements."
"Low-Profile, Broadband, Shear-Mode SONAR Transducer for Deep Submergence Applications",N00014-14-P-1125,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2014,1,80000.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David Brown,President,(401) 261-9318,dbrown@BTechAcoustics.com,Corey Bachand,Senior Engineer,(508) 910-9812,dbAcoustics@cox.net,"BTech proposes the design and development of a low-profile, broadband, shear-mode piezocrystal acoustic transducer for deep submergence applications. The Phase I effort considers evaluation of design variants of shear mode transducers with increased pressure operation/tolerance and tradeoffs associated with the same. Design feasibility is supported with calculations of expected performance and where possible, proof-of-principle experimentation."
Spherical Piezocrystal Transducers,N00014-14-C-0102,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2014,2,488853.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David Brown,President / Scientist,(401) 261-9318,dbrown@btechacoustics.com,Corey Bachand,Senior Engineer,(401) 261-9318,dbacoustics@cox.net,"We propose the continued design, development and testing of spherical piezocrystal transducers and supporting technology including our gyroid transducer. The Phase II effort covers the modeling and demonstration of the gyroid transducer and comparison of performance with several piezocrystal and piezoceramic materials and testing in realistic environment. The electroacoustic performance will be estimated and/or measured for several prototypes. The transducers will be evaluated for applicability and transition to Navy programs."
Innovative Acoustic Velocity Sensors,N00024-14-P-4508,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2014,1,79996.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David Brown,President,(401) 261-9318,dbrown@BTechAcoustics.com,Corey Bachand,Senior Engineer,(508) 910-9812,dbAcoustics@cox.net,"BTech proposes the design and development of low-profile, innovative acoustic velocity sensors for measuring acoustic motion of sound waves in marine applications. Methods include increasing voltage sensitivity by novel connections, considerations of co-located preamplifiers, multiple plates, improved materials and more. An improved acoustic motion accelerometer sensor for hull arrays is proposed using piezoelectric plates in a neutrally bouyant case."
Sensitive and Shape-Specific Molecular Identification,W911NF-14-C-0009,DOD,DOD,STTR,2014,2,358883.00,Ryon Technologies,200 Massasoit Ave.,,East Providence,RI,-,No,No,No,Edel Minogue,CEO,(401) 523-5277,edel@ryontech.com,Joseph Geiser,Senior Research Scientist,(401) 714-8275,joseph.geiser@ryontech.com,"The ability to rapidly detect, identify and monitor chemical agents remains a challenge of significant importance to the Armed Forces. Existing chemical sensing techniques have shortcomings that inhibit widespread implementation. To address this situation, Ryon Technologies is developing a portable instrument that is based on Rydberg Fingerprint Spectroscopy (RFS) in combination with mass spectrometry (MS). The dual detection of the RFS signal and the MS signal provides a two-dimensional readout where each molecule is positively identified through its mass and its structural fingerprint. This unique approach ensures that all molecules can be unambiguously identified, allowing the monitoring for chemical agents without false alarms. Because of the inherent sensitivity of detecting charged particles, very minute amounts of material will be possible to analyze. The development focuses on reducing all dimensions of the apparatus, including the vacuum envelope and the sample inlet. Through computational modeling the design is optimized for maximum sensitivity with the minimum number of parts."
Innovative Designs for Reliable Electro-Explosive Ordnance Devices,HQ0147-14-C-7044,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2014,2,973798.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,Elizabeth Goetz,Contracts&Purchasing Of,(401) 847-2260,egoetz@seacorp.com,Keith Amaral,Program Manager,(401) 847-2260,kamaral@seacorp.com,"Missiles, use electro-explosive devices (EEDs) to perform mulitple functions during operation. This effort seeks ways to improve on the EED""s reliability and lower the failure or inadvertent activation rate of these devices. During Phase I, SEA CORP investigated replacing EEDs with commercial off the shelf (COTS) automotive airbag inflators to perform the required pneumatic functions of various devices. The Phase II effort will develop, build, and test selected inflator based prototype devices for the most promising applications. Approved for Public Release 14-MDA-7903 (2 July 14)"
"Safe, Large-Format Lithium Ion Batteries for Aircraft",FA8650-14-M-2491,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2014,1,149423.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,"Vincent A. Yevoli, Jr.",President and Chief Operating Offic,(401) 471-6580,vyevoli@yardney.com,Frank Puglia,"Director, Research&Development",(401) 471-6580,fjpuglia@yardney.com,"YTP will develop technology that provides a high performance, modular Li-ion battery with: redundant safety features, safer thin, metal case cell designs; fin/micro-channel thermal control system; and an evaporating fluid system that rapidly quenches failing cells to prevent thermal runaway and fratricide. The end goal of the proposal is making a lighter, longer lasting, less expensive, safer JSF Battery. As a novel part of the battery design, YTP will study and test the implementation of an active cooling system based on the evaporation of a pressurized fluid such as CO2 or R134a. YTP will demonstrate that we can manufacture a smaller and lighter JSF cell which will be verified by testing the enhanced chemistry against YTP""s existing offering for the JSF, which meets the full electrical performance requirements. YTP will work with URI to concentrate to the JSF requirements their extensive work on atomic modeling of electrolytes and SEI layers with improved conductivity and thermal stability. Through modeling and testing, the work will demonstrate that the advanced thermal system will allow for a battery that can both resist failures and tolerate larger failures without going into thermal runaway."
"Development of Safe, Reliable, and Durable Lithium-ion Battery for Naval Aircraft Applications",N68335-14-C-0339,DOD,DOD,STTR,2014,1,79754.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,President/COO,(401) 471-6580,vyevoli@yardney.com,Joe Gnanaraj,Senior Scientist,(401) 471-6580,joeg@yardney.com,"Yardney will design and develop a lightweight, safe, reliable, and cost-effective aircraft battery with improved thermal design and the use of active cooling techniques. As a novel part of the battery design, Yardney will investigate and implement high performance electrodes using three dimensional (3D) micro-porous current collectors, safer thin metal case cell design, a micro-channel heat pipe thermal control system to collect heat generated inside the battery and then conduct the heat to the outer shell, thus providing direct cooling for the overheated region. The novel design will also prevent heat propagation between the cells with a lightweight aerogel that has low thermal conductivity. Tests of the enhanced cell design will be compared with Yardney""s existing battery, which meets current full aircraft electrical performance requirements. Yardney will work with the University of Arizona, experts in thermal modeling and heat-generation studies in battery electrodes and the battery cells and investigate the most effective thermal design for the 3D electrodes and the battery pack using high performance computing systems."
SIGMA: Speedy Imagery Geo-registration and Motion Analysis,FA8650-14-C-1826,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2014,2,749862.00,"Vision Systems, Inc.",72 Water Way,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,Vishal Jain,Vice-President,(401) 965-9304,vishal@visionsystemsinc.com,Vishal Jain,Vice-President,(401) 965-9304,vishal@visionsystemsinc.com,"ABSTRACT: VSI proposes the development of the SIGMA (Speedy Imagery Geo-registration and Motion Analysis) system, which will address three key requirements by the end of Phase II: (i) adapt to different type of sensors, sensor-configurations and sensor operating conditions, (ii) handle large amount of data in real-time or close to real-time using limited resources, and (iii) operate under conditions such as lack of metadata in case of GPS-denied areas and linear, unbounded trajecto-ries. The central tenet of the proposed approach will be formation of a graph where the nodes will be a group of images and these nodes will be connected to each other if there is a spatial or temporal connectivity. Furthermore, the development in Phase II will leverage Phase I develop-ments, specifically the robust online SFM system, which was successfully tested on multiple da-tasets such as CLIF 2007, MAMI and synthetic datasets, and (ii) the demonstrated feasibility of the dynamic graph- representation to handle large amounts of image data and variable camera geometry constraints. The proposed system is a plugin-based framework which will allow each of the components to be replaced by different implementations or algorithms to allow the system to work flexibly under different operating conditions. BENEFIT: Real-time mapping of aerial imagery for urban planning, construction and disaster relief and real-time traffic updates."
"Low-Cost, High Efficiency Integration of Solid-State Lighting and Building Controls Using a Packet Energy Transfer (PET) Power Distribution System",DE-SC0011860,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2014,1,149910.00,VoltServer,42 Ladd Street,,East Greenwich,RI,02818-4361,No,No,No,Stephen Eaves,Mr.,4018852010,stephen.eaves@voltserver.com,Stephen Eaves,Mr.,,stephen.eaves@voltserver.com,"Solid state lighting has not yet taken off in commercial buildings due to its high relative installed cost. On a normalized basis, solid state lighting replacement lamps are on the order of two times more expensive than equivalent compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), and five times more expensive than an equivalent downlight fixture. An additional barrier relates to the performance and cost of the driver circuitry, which comprises 15-20% of the cost of a commercial lamp and operates at a nominal efficiency of 88%. A third opportunity to improve the value proposition of solid state lighting relates to integration of advanced building control technologies by taking advantage of the built-in intelligent electronics due to the driver circuit. The proposed project will demonstrate an approach to reduce solid state lighting installed costs by upwards of 20-30%, reduce power distribution and conversion losses by a factor of three, and seamlessly integrated advanced building controls. The proposed approach is to leverage an intrinsically safe method for distributing high voltage direct current (DC) power in buildings that is highly efficient and capable of embedding data signals directly onto the power distribution channel using a novel technology called Packet Energy Transfer (PET). PET enables direct DC power distribution to solid state lighting and other building DC loads (e.g., consumer electronics, servers and workstations), which eliminates small distributed DC power supplies that are inefficient and costly compared to centralized alternating current (AC)-to-DC power conversion. The PET approach also simplifies the complexity associated with interfacing dimming signals with AC-driven lights by embedding data signals directly onto the PET conductor. In Phase I, the company will demonstrate the functionality and performance of a 1kW PET distribution system that accepts power from a commercial DC power supply, sends packetized power over Cat 5 cable to a remotely located receiver, and powers and controls driverless solid state lights with & gt;91% (grid-to- LED) efficiency. If the project is carried over into Phase III and successfully commercialized for commercial building applications, the projected cost reductions and other benefits of PET have the potential to save building owners $1.4-2.3 billion per year and the Federal Government $304-$486 million per year in capital and operating costs, save 5.1-8.8 TWh per year of energy, and reduce carbon emissions by 2.6-4.4 million metric tons per year by 2025."
Advancing a Glioma Immunotherapy,2R44NS071879-02A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2013,2,3055440.00,"IN CYTU, INC.",6 Blackstone Valley Place,,LINCOLN,RI,02865-4257,No,No,No,Alfred Vasconcellos,,401-821-3500,avasco@incytu.com,Dwaine F. Emerich,,401-821-3500,emerich@incytu.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): A Phase II SBIR program of preclinical development is proposed for the development of an active specific immunotherapeutic called Cellarium for treatment of glial cell-based cancers. Successful completion of this project will confirm therapeutic effect and pre-clinical safety of the vaccine in preparation for first-in-human studies Upon demonstration of safety and efficacy, the Cellarium vaccine will provide a greatly-improved, targeted treatment for glioma patients, for whom current treatments can be debilitating, painful and expensive. Gliomas are widespread deadly diseases for which current therapies are inadequate. In the US gliomas accounted for 44% of the 22,070 cases of brain and other nervous system cancers diagnosed and 12,920 associated deaths in 2009. Recent studies have shown increasing incidence of glioma in US adults. Gliomas are predominantly treated today with an aggressive three-step protocol of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Despite this regimen, patients with Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM), the most common and deadly malignant brain tumor, still have a median survival of less than 15 months. Moreover, the estimated cost of treatment for each patient with a malignant brain tumor ranges from 30,000 to several hundred thousand dollars annually. Originally, this technology approach was conceived in the laboratory of Dr. David Mooney at the University of Michigan (who is now at Harvard University). The Cellarium technology is the result of work at InCytuin both the melanoma and glioma models that has led to new insights which transcend the original discoveries at Michigan and Harvard and have led to a more effective and reliable product. The Cellarium is an in situ therapeutic vaccine which incorporatesbiological cofactors and patient-specific cell lysate, attracts dendritic cells (DCs), exposes them to the tumor specific antigens, and then releases them to direct a strong, targeted immune response against malignant tissue. Phase II aims are: (1) to manufacture Cellarium using equipment and methods purpose designed to yield CNS specific product sized for both the murine and human sized brain and confirm Phase I results of the Cellarium for Glioma in both murine and porcine preclinical models ; (2) to develop formal Standard operating Procedures needed for submission to the FDA and validate manufacture and QC of the devices then perform a pre-GLP study needed for discussions with the FDA; (3) to conduct GLP safety and efficacy study in preparation for the filing of an IND. If Phase II studies are successful, the Cellarium vaccine will continue to be developed through clinical trials with the eventual goal of scaling manufacture in the US and selling as a commercially available specific immunotherapeutic vaccine to treat glioma patients. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Glioma is a growing public health problem (12,920 deaths in 2009); current therapies are expensive (gt 30k with severe side effects) and difficult (median survival lt15 months, very few remissions) to treat. A breakthrough immunotherapy called Cellarium showed very promising results (955% increase in median survival) in a rat model performed under a Phase I SBIR program. This project will complete pre-clinical development of the Cellarium glioma therapeutic vaccine in preparation for filing an IND and a first-in-man study."
Instrument for Measuring Millimeter-Wave Polarimetric Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function,W31P4Q-13-C-0096,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,1,99998.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,CEO,(401) 295-0062,wweedon@appliedradar.com,Steve Cheung,Principal Engineer,(401) 295-0062,scheung@appliedradar.com,"The proposal will perform study and design of a gonioreflectometer or equivalent instrument that can measure Polarimetric Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (PBRDF) in the millimeter wave (mmW) spectrum using heterodyne transmit/receive (Tx/Rx) radar technology. The instrument will be used to coherently measure amplitude and phase information and construct a BRDF with user-specified angular precision in Ka-band (~35 GHz), V-band (~60 GHz), W-band (~90 GHz), D-band (~140 GHz) and G-band (~220 GHz). The proposal will first analyze and simulated RF performance of the proposed design concepts through high-level system design and performance optimization to maximize signal to noise ratio and minimize dwell time at each angle scan; and then identify approaches with reducing risk toward selecting the design concept. A detailed construction plan together with performance specification for the proposed design will be developed based on (i) availability of commercial COTS component and hardware, (ii) optimization results from Phase I, and (iii) measurement repeatability. The proposed efforts are to demonstrate the feasibility of this mmW concept for PBRDF characterization. The construction plan will be used to build a demonstrator in Phase II."
Piezocrystal Gyroid Transducer,N00014-13-M-0020,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,1,150000.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David Brown,President,(401) 261-3918,dbAcoustics@cox.net,David Brown,President,(401) 261-3918,dbAcoustics@cox.net,We propose the design and development of a novel gyroid transducer comprised of piezocrystal ring elements. The Phase I effort covers the modeling and demonstration of the gyroid transducer and comparison of performance with several piezocrystal and piezoceramic materials. The electroacoustic performance will be estimated for several designs and a prototype element will be built and laboratory tested.
"Expediting the Production of High Value, Standardized, and Transparent Data",4R44TR000030-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2013,2,989251.00,"MJ DATA CORPORATION, LTD",7 Thurber Boulevard,,Smithfield,RI,02917-,Yes,Yes,No,Kathy Ivey,,401-232-3282,kivey@mjdatacorp.com,P. A. Minugh,,401-331-1500,aminugh@mjdatacorp.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Researchers and contractors are under increasing pressure to produce rapid turnaround times for data releases and publications. Inadequate data management is a common threat to good research and impedes the quick release of high value data. Despite its importance, many organizations do not have standardized data management practices that allow them to prepare high quality datasets quickly, effectively, and with transparency. As a result, production delays, inefficiencies, inconsistencies, and data errors are common. This proposal describes the development of a practical, user-friendly electronic tool, the Data ExpediterTM (DE) Syntax Generator, which uses step-by-step data management procedures combined with cutting edge,innovative algorithms to standardize and automate processes involved in creating high quality analytic files. Designed with researchers in health, social, and educational sciences in mind, the product walks the user through a best practice model for datamanagement, specifically for tasks involved in creating clean and accurate data analytic files. Readily available metadata, syntax, and reports make monitoring studies, creating new databases, controlling data file releases, implementing changes, analyzingdata, and training new project staff faster and more cost effective than ever. Phase I aims are to: (1) develop and test a working prototype; (2) conduct focus group research to assess the acceptance of the prototype; and (3) develop a full set of functional specifications. Upon demonstration of Phase I feasibility, Phase II aims are to: (1) build the commercialized DE Syntax Generator; (2) conduct usability testing to demonstrate ease of use; (3) conduct field tests in actual research settings at Harvardand Brown Universities; and (4) develop educational and product support materials. As an outcomes-driven innovation, the product will occupy a unique place in the market with its guided data management process and large array of automation tools. The products provides a unique and affordable solution to a common problem by using a standardized, uniform framework and automated syntax generation while allowing data users (e.g., researchers, administrators, those working with electronic patient records) to house data in their existing statistical software. The DE Syntax Generator replaces the chaotic, slow, and error-ridden, data management process with an organized, streamlined, and complete sequence of steps with interwoven quality control and automation to ensure rapid production of quality data. The DE Syntax Generator will improve the efficiency of studies, enhance data sharing, and decrease data and reporting errors. In sum, the product addresses an unmet need by helping researchers and data managers to follow state-of-the art practice guidelines for data management (transparency and proper documentation of all procedures) while getting the job done better, faster, and less expensively. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE The Data Expediter Syntax Generatorsoftware application offers health, social, and education researchers a practical, cost-effective solution for managing, rapidly processing and documenting study data utilizing technology that makes these high-value activities readily transparent. The product has the potential to decrease data and reporting errors, increase data quality, improve research study efficiency, and enhance data sharing."
Developing an Improved Electrocompetent E. coli Host,1R43TR000362-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2013,1,231215.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice Prochaska,,401-360-2971,jmprochaska@prochange.com,Sara S. Johnson,,401-874-5612,sjohnson@prochange.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Chronic musculoskeletal pain creates a significant public health burden. Veterans are disproportionately affected by chronic musculoskeletal pain, and in particular, chronic low back pain (CLBP). The frequency and extent of co-occurrence of pain and PTSD, pain and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and all three conditions (Post-deployment Multi-symptom Disorder (PMD)) can complicate and reduce the effectiveness of treatment for pain. The 2011 Institute of Medicine Blueprintfor Relieving Pain in America calls for the promotion of self- management; reducing disparities among vulnerable subgroups (including Veterans); and the tailoring of pain care to each patient. Proponents of integrated treatment for PMD or the co-occurrenceof pain with either TBI or PTSD are advocating for delivery of interventions that address multiple conditions. The proposed research represents an innovative response to those recommendations in that it will develop and examine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of Sx3: Self Management of Pain, Sleep, and Stress Management a theoretically-grounded, mobile-optimized, Internet-based, interactive pain self-management program for chronic musculoskeletal pain. Unlike any existing pain intervention, Sx3: 1) is tailored specifically for Veterans' readiness to adopt self-management and preference for pain management strategies; 2) incorporates two of the core components of promising integrated treatments for PMD that are appropriate for Veterans with co-morbidities: sleep hygiene and stress management (relaxation training); and 3) leverages social networking, gaming principles, and SMS messaging to increase engagement and retention. Developed in collaboration with national pain self-management expert Dr. Robert Kerns, the computer- tailored intervention (CTI) will include a dynamic personal activity center, principles of gaming for health, social networking features, and optional text messages. Extensive end user and stakeholder input will ensureSx3 is designed for rapid dissemination. Participants for formative focus groups (n=60); usability testing (n=20); and a pilot test (n=50) will be recruited from VA Connecticut Healthcare System. Formative focus group feedback will be combined with expertinput to develop a prototype of an engaging self-management program tailored to readiness to adopt and preference for pain coping skills that incorporates sleep hygiene and stress management. Usability testing will allow the prototype to be refined beforea 30-day pilot. Pilot participants will provide quantitative and qualitative acceptability data, and utilization data wil be examined. Pre-post comparisons of pain intensity; physical and emotional functioning; Patient Global Impression of Change; and readiness to adopt pain coping skills will provide preliminary data on the effects of the program. These data will inform program modifications needed to proceed with the Phase II effectiveness trial. Phase II will provide the impetus for commercialization ofa cost-effective, evidence-based, population-based program that has the potential to improve pain self-management, functioning, and well-being. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Chronic pain, and in particular, chronic musculoskeletal pain is all too common and imposes enormous costs on patients, society, and the health care system. The proposed research will develop and test a pain self- management program that 1) provides feedback uniquely matched to an individual's readiness touse helpful pain coping skills, improve sleep hygiene, and manage stress; 2) can be used on any computer or mobile device; 3) interfaces with social networking sites; 4) includes personalized text messages; and 5) uses principles of gaming for health to engage users. This computer tailored intervention offers a cost-effective, science-based, and easily deliverable solution to entire populations to increase self-management, reduce pain, and improve functioning and well-being."
Innovative Designs for Reliable Electro-Explosive Ordnance Devices,HQ0147-13-C-7516,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,1,99841.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,Elizabeth M. Goetz,Contracts&Purchasing Officer,(401) 847-2260,egoetz@seacorp.com,Barry Holland,Project Manager,(401) 847-2260,bholland@seacorp.com,"America""s ballistic missile defense system provides the only means currently available to protect it, and its allies, from a catastrophic attach by nuclear or conventionally armed ballistic missiles. A critical component of that system is the Interceptor missile, which relies of a number of electro-explosive devices (EEDs) to perform reliably in order to successful carry out its mission. MDA is seeking ways to improve on the EED""s reliability and lower the failure or inadvertent activation rate of these devices. SEA CORP proposes that instead of improving on the EED design, that EEDs be replaced by COTS automotive airbag inflators to perform the required pneumatic functions. These inflators have a proven reliability record of greater than 99.9999% and are currently produced in the millions per year by a number of manufacturers on highly automated production lines under very strict quality control methods. Inflators have been successfully used by SEA CORP in a number of pneumatic applications to do mechanical work, so adaption to the specific devices required in the Interceptor missile is entirely feasible. Interface with the devices is a threaded fitting, and the same electrical circuits that are used to activate EEDs can be adapted to the inflators."
Sonobuoy Electronic Function Selector (EFS) Replacement,N68335-13-C-0389,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,2,677218.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,Elizabeth Goetz,Contracts Officer,(401) 847-2260,egoetz@seacorp.com,Leslie Smith,Project Manager,(401) 847-2260,ssmith@seacorp.com,"Present sonobuoys allow for the selection of functions such as RF Channel, Depth, etc. by use of a single selector button and LED display along with a second button used for verification located on the side of the sonobuoy. Selection or verification requires access to the buttons and cannot be accomplished once the sonobuoy is loaded into the launcher. The capability to select and verify functions wirelessly employing either an in-launcher Ir interface or a battery-operated, Ir handheld device useable in low light conditions that can interface to a standard personal computer (PC) has been deemed desirable for adaptation to the P-8A Poseidon by NAVAIR. Use in P-8A would permit programming and verification to be accomplished via direct interface with the mission computer while the sonobuoy is in the launcher and while the aircraft is in flight. Team SEA CORP will advance Remote Electronic Function Select (REFS) Ir sonobuoy programming technologies developed in Phases I and II to TRL-6 to enable future P-8A integration. The Team SEA CORP solution will address specific requirements for P-8A integration. The full system will cost under $15K in production. Reliability and the ability to operate in various environments will be addressed."
"High-Energy, High-Power Light Weight Lithium Ion Batteries For Electric Drive Vehicle",DE-FG02-13ER90473,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2013,1,148733.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,Mr.,860-599-3903,vyevoli@yardney.com,Joseph Gnanaraj,Dr.,860-599-1100,joeg@yardney.com,"Electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, and plugin hybrid electric vehicles (EVs, HEVs, and PHEVs) are emerging technologies that can significantly reduce petroleum usage in the transportation sector. Widespread adoption of electricdrive vehicles will lower automobile operation costs and can significantly decrease emissions of greenhouse gases. However, for these technologies to be successful in todays market, a new generation of batteries with improved cost per kilowatthour is needed. Yardney Technical Products, Inc. (YTP), a world leader in advanced battery systems for specialty applications, proposes to develop a transformational battery design that will decrease weight and cost significantly. The proposed concept involves drastic design advancements that will eliminate a large portion of the inactive weight present in all stateoftheart lithiumion (Liion) cells. Additionally, high capacity anode materials with 3 times the specific capacity of commercial graphites will be used to further increase specific energy and energy density. Batteries which incorporate the proposed innovations will weigh 2030% less than stateoftheart technologies at the cell level."
SBIR Phase I: A Bioactive Hernia Mesh Containing Choroid Plexus Factors For Improved Tissue Integration,1248710,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2013,1,150000.00,CYTOSOLV INC.,155 Pelletier Lane,,Tiverton,RI,02878-3007,No,No,No,Chris Thanos,,4012286088,cgthanos@gmail.com,Chris Thanos,,4012286088,cgthanos@gmail.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I Project continues the development of the choroid plexus (CP) growth factor cocktail for application to biologic hernia meshes to treat the challenging hernia repair market. CP factors represent a broad spectrum of potent biologic molecules that have demonstrated a benefit in the healing of splinted open wounds in diabetic mice, are neuroprotective, and can be harvested from cultured CP epithelium for at least a year. The current project focuses on formulating these factors into coatings that can be applied to porcine derived acellular dermal matrices in an attempt to provide modulation of the inflammatory cascade and subsequent improvement of engraftment. CP factors harvested from culture will be collected, purified, and concentrated into hydrogel coatings. Three markers of potency, VEGF, TIMP-2, and TGF-â, will be assessed by ELISA to characterize the raw materials, as well release profiles of various formulations. Using the rat midline abdominal defect model, coated mesh prototypes will be compared to commercially available products with a focus on histopathological characterization, gene expression within the graft, and mechanical integrity. The experimental design and selected endpoints are expected to provide the foundation for determining potential efficacy and subsequent product development pathways. The broader impact/commercial potential of this project, if successful will address the need of, approximately 200,000-400,000 patients annually who are associated with impaired healing, poor engraftment of traditional hernia meshes, and recurrence rates as high as 65%. With very high rates of primary repair failure, as well as hernia developing from simple laparotomy, there is a significantly large unmet clinical need resulting in a market size of approximately $1.7B. A successful translation into the clinic will result in a product that improves hernia mesh engraftment by accelerating inflammation and promoting cell migration and extracellular matrix production. Such a product has the potential for an immediate impact in the clinic due to the rise in prevalence of patients with challenging hernia repairs, and lack of available efficacious therapies. The studies proposed here are preliminary steps toward commercialization, with the opportunity to capture a significant portion of the approximately $1.7B market, none of which is currently occupied by growth factor therapies. By demonstrating a therapeutic benefit, this work could be commercialized rapidly through an ongoing partnership to provide near-term benefit to patients with impaired healing."
Geo-registration of Aerial Imagery Using 3-D Volumetric Models,HM0210-13-C-0006,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,2,499535.00,"Vision Systems, Inc.",72 Water Way,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,Joseph L. Mundy,President,(401) 245-7385,mundy@lems.brown.edu,Ozge C. Ozcanli,Image Scientist,(401) 427-0860,ozge@visionsystemsinc.com,"With the advancement of aerial imaging sensors, high quality data equipped with partial sensor calibration models is available. There is a recent research activity in computer vision community that aims to reconstruct 3-d structure of the observed scenes relying on the content of the imagery in fully automated ways. However the research has not matured into robust systems ready for operational settings. In this proposal, a novel architecture that reconstructs the 3-d geometry of the scene in the form of a geo-registered 3-d point cloud given imagery from multiple sensor platforms is presented. The 3-d cloud is equipped with LE and CE measurements through propagation of errors in the sensor calibration and the geometry reconstruction stages. The CVG team proposes to use a volumetric probabilistic 3-d representation (P3DM) and dense image matching to reconstruct the geometry and the appearance of the scene starting from a set of images with partial calibration data. The P3DM technology is at Technical Readiness Level (TRL) 4, with critical modules of the system parallelized and implemented on GPU hardware for real-time processing."
Long-distance 3-D Reconstruction from EO/IR Imagery,FA8650-13-M-1652,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2013,1,149873.00,"Vision Systems, Inc.",72 Water Way,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,Joseph L. Mundy,President,(401) 427-0860,mundy@lems.brown.edu,Daniel Crispell,Research Scientist,(401) 427-0860,dan@visionsystemsinc.com,"ABSTRACT: While the state of the art in both single-image reconstruction algorithms and multi-view structure from motion algorithms have advanced considerably in recent years, little work has been performed which leverages the constraints relied upon by both approaches. When an area of interest is imaged from a long distance with little angular diversity in viewpoint, multi-view constraints alone are often insufficient to produce an accurate 3-d reconstruction. It is proposed that the additional constraints provided by surface properties learned from image data will improve reconstruction performance significantly. The proposed Phase I effort is focused on the development of an aerial image-based 3-d reconstruction algorithm that combines the relative strengths of both single-image reconstruction and context algorithms and state of the art multi-view stereo. The result is an automatically generated 3-d model that is optimally constrained by all information contained in a set of collected aerial images. The proposed system is general enough to exploit high angular diversity datasets, but exhibits graceful degradation as the viewpoint diversity decreases. The decrease in information due to low view angle diversity is compensated by single-image constraints on surface orientation derived by machine learning algorithms. BENEFIT: Benefits of the proposed approach include improved sensor model estimation and high accuracy 3-D modeling capabilities. Applications include support of downstream processing (tracking, geo-positioning, geo-registration), augmented reality / situational awareness, and simulation/training."
Speedy Sparse Bundle Adjustment for Video/Image Sequences,FA8650-13-M-1693,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2013,1,149926.00,"Vision Systems, Inc.",72 Water Way,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,Joseph L. Mundy,President,(401) 427-0860,mundy@lems.brown.edu,Vishal Jain,Vice President,(401) 965-9304,vishal@visionsystemsinc.com,"ABSTRACT: VSI proposes a flexible sensor estimation framework for airborne calibration processing of image streams over long time periods. The components of the framework will consist of existing software and libraries. The plugin-based framework provides flexibility to switch the components easily. The core of the framework is a belief propagation engine to globally optimize the sensor parameters. The input to the approach is an image stream and its associated navigational data when available. The proposed framework is an online system wherein the sensor estimation is continuously refined as more spatial overlap is discovered. The proposed system can be dynamically tuned for either speed/efficiency or accuracy, depending on the requirements of the operator. The central tenets of the proposed approach are (i) use temporal ordering of the images to increase the computation efficiency, (ii) use spatial overlap of the images which are temporally disjoint to correct for any accumulated drift and (iii) to locally optimize the sensor parameters and use the belief propagation to globally optimize the sensor parameters for hundred thousands of images. BENEFIT: Sensor estimation capabilities for airborne image acquisition systems for Remote Sensing Applications. On-board processing capabilities for updating traffic reports."
SBIR Phase I: Agile track and trace system for pharmaceuticals,1315431,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2013,1,150000.00,"AgileQR, Inc",70 Kennedy Plaza,Unit 2,Providence,RI,02903-2000,No,Yes,Yes,Albert Ho,,9784968187,albert@121nexus.com,Albert Ho,,9784968187,albert@121nexus.com,"The innovation is the usage of smart packaging technology as a pharmaceutical track and trace (TT) solution deployed on the packaging of consumer drug products. This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will determine its feasibility. The problem to be solved is the considerable expense and inefficiency of drug recall and detection of counterfeit drugs in the pharmaceutical industry. Existing solutions simply print a Standardized Numerical Identifier (SNI) on drug packages, leaving it up to each player in the drug supply chain to use and interpret without guidance or communication. For these reasons, TT is not widely adopted, useful, easily accessible, or understandable. The innovation eliminates these challenges by using a URL in place of an SNI, unique to each drug package. Each URL directs to a landing page with data specific to the associated drug that can be updated in real time. This Phase I study aims to ensure that mass-scale creation and updating of these codes is possible and efficient at the manufacturing level of the supply chain. Validating the deployment of smart packaging at the manufacturing level enables the affordable and flexible solution to propagate down the supply chain, an ideal situation for broad market adoption. The broader/commercial impact of track and trace (TT) technology is breaking the pervasive state of inertia in the pharmaceutical industry. This state exists from the FDA's failure to implement TT guidelines despite the 2007 FDA Amendments Act which promised to deliver such guidelines. Firms are hesitant to commit to implementing technologies that might prove to be ill-equipped to manage future changes in regulatory guidelines. Available solutions are focused on providing technology for the developing world as those countries are the most impacted by counterfeit pharmaceuticals. While counterfeiting is a smaller problem in developed nations, there are still many challenges in managing recalls when contamination is discovered in the supply-chain. The innovation has great commercial potential because ""smart packaging"" is future-proof due to the technology's use of webpages that can be instantly updated to comply with current regulations. The system allows for recalls to be managed more efficiently which not only means less liability but also fewer human lives lost. The innovation provides immediate value to pharmaceutical manufacturers and consumers and can benefit all supply-chain participants in the future. It will provide an opportunity to scientifically understand how different users consume and share information between different points in the supply-chain."
SBIR Phase I: Innovative Tripolar Concentric Ring Electrode Electroencephalography (tEEG) to Advance Epilepsy Diagnosis,1248654,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2013,1,149915.00,CREmedical Corporation,110 Bean Farm Drive,,Kingston,RI,02881-1223,No,Yes,No,Walter G. Besio,,4012842431,a_besio@yahoo.com,Walter G. Besio,,4012842431,a_besio@yahoo.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project aims to establish the feasibility of innovative tripolar concentric ring electrode electroencephalography (tEEG) for epilepsy diagnosis. Epilepsy is the most common serious brain disorder worldwide. Presently, EEG is the primary diagnostic tool for epilepsy, but misdiagnosis occurs in up to 50% of the patients. The root cause of misdiagnosis lies in the poor signal fidelity of EEG which stems in part from signal contamination with noise. The proposed tEEG technology achieves superior signal fidelity through two inventions: (1) the tripolar concentric ring electrode (TCRE), a transformative electrode configuration which overcomes the limitations of the conventional electrode; and (2) a proprietary interface circuit which serves as a preamplifier to conventional EEG amplifiers. This project will accomplish two specific aims. The first aim is to improve the design of the clinical tEEG prototype. The second aim is to evaluate tEEG against conventional EEG in adult and pediatric patients with epilepsy. Success will be determined by expert review and quantitative analysis. tEEG is expected to exhibit higher interpretability and quantitative performance than conventional EEG, helping improve epilepsy diagnosis. The broader impact/commercial potential of this project is three-fold: (1) Commercial Value. tEEG is a platform technology that has a variety of medical and commercial applications. By providing significantly higher fidelity which leads to improved signal interpretability, tEEG will resolve conventional EEG?s major drawback and a fundamental problem that clinicians and researchers have been struggling with for decades. tEEG can advance diagnosis and fill unmet clinical and research needs. Commercially, tEEG can transform the market landscape and set a new standard for EEG equipment. (2) Societal Impact. The fundamental improvement promised by tEEG and its non-invasive nature are particularly appealing. tEEG has the potential to greatly simplify and advance the diagnosis of a wide spectrum of neurological disorders and more effectively guide neurosurgical and other medical procedures. (3) Enhanced Scientific and Technological Understanding. tEEG can benefit a host of brain and behavioral research areas. The fundamental improvement in signal fidelity and artifacts rejection will help advance the understanding of brain activity, leading to new discoveries in the research of various brain diseases and neurological disorders. The increased signal fidelity from tEEG may advance research of biomarkers to quantify neurological disorders with tEEG which was not previously possible."
An Automated Platform for High-throughput Network Electrophysiology,1R43HL120469-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2013,1,224993.00,"CALISTA THERAPEUTICS, INC.",32 RIVERSIDE DR,,LINCOLN,RI,02865-1511,No,No,No,Andrew P. Mallon,,401-345-5979,AndrewMallon@CalistaTherapeutics.co,Alvin Bach,,401-345-5979,AlvinBach@CalistaTherapeutics.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Calista Therapeutics has discovered a first-in-class, proprietary PDZ1-2 lead drug, AT010, that is being optimized and developed as an inhaled daily therapy for cystic fibrosis (CF). CF is a deadly inherited genetic disorder that disrupts chloride channel function, resulting in the buildup of sticky mucus in patient's lungs and other organs.CF patients have a life expectancy of 37 years and need intensive therapeutic interventions for chronic co-morbidities and symptoms.Critically, there are no approved disease-modifying treatments for 96% of CF patients, resulting in a very high unmet clinical need. Preliminary AT010 results already show proof of efficacy in the restoration of the chloride channel in human CF bronchialepithelium. In addition, AT010 can be delivered through CF mucus following topical apical dosing. PDZ1-2 is a well-validated therapeutic target in CF that influences both the CF chloride channels trafficking and anchoring at the cell membrane, and its activation. The high level of restoration we have already observed with AT010 is established to be predictive of clinical efficacy. The novel and distinct PDZ1-2 mechanism of action in CF also suggests it will have a beneficial additive effect with other CF drugs. We have built a world-class team of CF and drug development experts and our results demonstrate technical competence and the environment to successfully achieve the project's aims: Aim 1. Synthesis of an optimized clinical lead AT010-derived peptidelibrary: AT010 analogs designed to have stability, efficacy, low cost of manufacture, simple predicted CMC, non-immunogenicity, bioavailability, mucus penetration and target specificity will be synthesized in sufficient quantity and purity for Aim 2. Aim 2. Stability and efficacy testing of candidate compounds in human CF models. Aim 2.1: We will test and percentage rank the library for stability in human CF epithelial lining fluid. Peptides wil be eliminated from further development only if they show low solubility or a half-life lt30 minutes because this will lead to unacceptable bioavailability. Aim 2.2: We will assess efficacy of the peptide drug library using CF patient tissues and samples and gold standard pre-clinical models that provide the best predictive power for clinical success: (1) Restoration of human delta-F508-CFTR chloride current gt10%, (2) Restoration of normal airway surface liquid (ASL) height and (3) Unimpaired diffusion through CF mucus. This will provide a percentage ranked peptide drug library for CF-relevant in vitro stability and efficacy endpoints that will identify clinical lead nd back-up peptide drugs ready for toxicity assessments. Milestone 2: Upon completion we will solicit a Pre-IND meeting to allow rapid lead drug progression to IND studies and clinical trials. An expert team, substantially validated target, proprietary novel drug class (AT010), compelling preliminary data and an outstanding environment combine to ensure successful commercialization. Calista therapeutics hasplanned IND enabling studies and clinical trials that project completion of Phase1 and 2a trials in Year 4 post-grant award with a pivotal Phase 2b/3 trial prior to New Drug Application for approval. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE:Cystic Fibrosis is the commonest lethal inherited disease among Caucasian Americans. Calista Therapeutics has discovered a novel 'corrector' therapeutic strategy for Cystic Fibrosis that has already proven very effective in cystic fibrosis patient lung tissue. This therapy is intended to effectively treat all Cystic Fibrosis patients, preventing death and disablement of the 30,000 patients."
Seam Engineering: Stitchless Seam Technology,N00189-13-P-Z287,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2013,1,79992.00,"PROPEL, LLC",999 MAIN ST UNIT 106,,PAWTUCKET,RI,02860,Yes,No,No,Bethany Pollack,Project Manager,(401) 751-2216,bpollack@propel-llc.com,Clare King,Principal Investigator,(401) 751-2216,cking@propel-llc.com,"Propel LLC proposes to systematically investigate novel stitchless seam technologies with the potential to be used for the design and engineering of existing US Navy clothing end-items. Propel will develop sample seams using the identified stitchless technologies and use these samples to evaluate and rank the novel technologies according to performance test data. Other ranking criteria will also be included, such as cost, domestic availability, equipment requirements and technology readiness level. At least one promising technology from the evaluation and ranking efforts will be down selected for Phase II efforts. The project objective will be a reduction in weight and bulk, while at the same time enhancing performance characteristics such as durability, stiffness, dimensional stability and abrasion resistance, with the existing Navy Working Uniform Parka as the baseline for comparison. The project will seek to down select a stitchless technology that does not compromise moisture vapor transfer, and is able to enhance the ergonomics of the clothing to the user. Propel will also review current test methods for stitched technologies and develop new approaches as needed for the evaluation of stitchless technologies."
Passive Airborne Radar Using Opportunistic Signals (PASSAROS),FA8650-12-M-1419,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,1,150000.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael Sherry,President,(401) 295-0062,msherry@appliedradar.com,Marcos Bergamo,VP of Technology,(401) 295-0062,mbergamo@appliedradar.com,"ABSTRACT: A key requirement for a practical/scalable airborne passive radar system using opportunistic ground emitters such as broadcast TV is the ability to effectively isolate the high-powered direct-path signals from much weaker target reflected ones. Previous passive radars rely on array antennas complemented by multistatic techniques and dedicate/agile decoders for every-possible-type of opportunistic signal which conflict with CSWAP-limitations of the airborne platforms. Our proposed Passive Airborne Radar using Opportunistic Signals (PASSAROS) provides a solution for these challenges as it requires a single receiver per platform without requiring detection of specific channels or features; uses simple correlation/synchronization techniques to cancel out the problematic direct-path while achieving high-quality measurement of target range and Doppler, and expands on novel technologies Applied Radar recently demonstrated for DARPA""s Surface Tactical Terminal Localization using Opportunistic Signals (STALOS) for multi-target sorting and triangulation. Our proposed PASSAROS research will focus on the important detection-and-tracking of aircraft flying at altitudes below the view of traditional radar systems. Specifically, Applied Radar will develop and simulated the performance of an airborne passive radar system in Phase I, and develop a testbed using mobile ground-based receivers emulating airborne platforms and demonstrate its performance to detect a low-flying aircraft target in Phase II. BENEFIT: Tracking and location for first responders to aircraft accidents. Federal Aviation Agency for surveillance and tracking aircraft and for air safety if transponders fail or are turned off. Drug Enforcement Agency for surveillance and tracking aircraft. A ground-based passive radar system could be used for non-towered airports. Passive sensors located along a perimeter fence could be used to detect and track intruders along a border."
Adaptive Distributed Aperture Radar Mainlobe Jammer Suppression,HQ0147-12-C-7012,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,2,499978.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael A. Sherry,Vice-President,(401) 295-0062,msherry@appliedradar.com,Michael A. Deaett,Principal Engineer,(401) 295-0062,miked@appliedradar.com,"Current monostatic radar systems suffer fine tracking and discrimination performance degradation when encountering mainlobe jammers deployed within a reentry complex. As a result our forces may be vulnerable to attack. During Phase I, we have developed distributed aperture techniques for mitigating mainlobe jammers which are ready for evaluation in an operational system context. To accomplish this, the algorithms will be perfected to operate reliably in a comprehensive system simulation environment. The result will be a set of software processing modules with interfaces derived from a radar open systems architecture. The interface compliance will be assured by the use of an interface working group. The performance improvements from distributed aperture operation compared to monostatic radar operation will be predicted. Coherent distributed aperture jammer mitigation performance will be demonstrated initially using Applied Radar X-Band Interferometric Radar hardware. Operational performance improvement will be evaluated using engagement simulations employing realistic fleet mission scenarios. These demonstrations will be conducted in established combat system test facilities operated by our transition partner. The result is a spiral integration of improved radar performance applicable to both sea and land-based radar system operation."
Wideband Sub-Array Digital Receiver Exciter (DREX) Development and Packaging,HQ0147-13-C-7201,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,2,999954.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael A. Sherry,President,(401) 295-0062,msherry@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,CEO,(401) 295-0062,wweedon@appliedradar.com,"Applied Radar, Inc. is developing the Single Channel Open Source Architecture (SCORE) digital receiver/exciter (DREX) card which represents a revolutionary step leap in SWAP-C reduction. The SCORE card is a 3U OpenVPX card which incorporates a single channel of waveform generation, RF Upconversion, RF Downconversion, and waveform capture and processing. Importantly, the design is scalable, and designed for multi-channel applications involving digital beforming. Additional channels are supported by simply adding more 3U cards, which may be synchronized together to support radar systems of various sizes and for different applications from large BMDS systems to smaller tactical radars."
Affordable Low-Profile Wideband SATCOM Antennas (LPWSA) for Airborne Platforms,W911QX-12-C-0024,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,1,99942.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael Sherry,President,(401) 295-0062,msherry@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,CEO,(401) 295-0062,wweedon@appliedradar.com,"The proposal will develop multiple design concepts, conduct a trade study, and identify the three (3) most promising concepts for affordable low-profile and wideband satellite communication antennas (LPWSA) with high data rate capability and minimum airstream protrusion for airborne platforms. Specifically, the study will investigate several modified hybrid low-profile antenna array concepts with reduced antenna height and widen coverage range of low elevation incident. The development approaches include (a) two separated broadband antenna system designs for the Ku-band and the Ka/K band and (b) single low-profile ultra wideband antenna design for the above antenna system concepts that cover all-inclusive Ku- and Ka- bands. In either case, the availability and cost of COTs components will affect the choice of the antenna system architecture for airborne SATCOM applications. The threshold of the proposal is the development of a Ku-band antenna for simultaneous transmit and receive satellite communication, with an objective to develop an all-inclusive dual-band Ku/Ka antenna array system. The proposal will first analyze and simulated RF performance of the proposed design concepts through electromagnetic simulation, and then identify risks and approaches for reducing risk toward selecting these design concepts."
EpiVax Phase II SBIR: Preclinical studies of Tregitope Delivery and Mechanism of,2R44DK081261-03A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2012,2,1474236.00,"EPIVAX, INC.",146 CLIFFORD STREET,,PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Lauren Levitx,,401-272-2123,llevitz@epivax.com,Anne S. Degroot,,401-272-2123,annied@epivax.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The goal of this Phase II project is to advance the development of novel tolerance-inducing peptides (Tregitopes) to prevent and/or treat Type 1 diabetes (T1D) by optimizing the clinical delivery vehicle and treatment protocol, and by identifying correlates of efficacy in preparation for Phase 1 clinical trials. More than 13,000 children in the U.S. are diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) each year. T1D results from destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic islet cells by auto-reactive T cells, eventually leading to glucose intolerance. Induction of antigen (Ag)-specific tolerance is the key to effective immunotherapy for T1D. EpiVax discovered a new biologic intervention for T1D called Tregitopes, which are administered along with insulin peptides in order to reprogram the autoimmune responses and induce islet cell Ag-specific tolerance. On the basis of excellent Phase I results, and parallel collaborative studies demonstrating the induction of Ag- specific tolerance in gene therapy and transplant models, this Phase II project will advance a form of Tregitope therapy called T1D-Ag-Specific Adaptive Tolerance Induction (T1D-ASATI) toward preclinical development. Successful translation of T1D-ASATI to the clinic will havea radical impact on the field of diabetes therapy, potentially abrogating the need for insulin therapy in T1D. Studies in Phase I of this project demonstrated that Tregitopes can both prevent and successfully treat diabetes in NOD mice, when delivered prior to, or at the onset of diabetes, however, the delivery vehicles tested in Phase I are not FDA-approvable. The primary objective of this Phase II project is, therefore, to select a clinically feasible delivery vehicle and regimen; the secondary objective is to define biomarkers or correlates of Tregitope efficacy to support clinical development. Aim 1 will identify a suitable delivery vehicle therapeutic administration route, administration frequency protocol, and dose range for Tregitope therapy in the genetically susceptible non-obese diabetic (NOD) mouse model of T1D. Delivery of either peptides or concatamers composed of the Tregitope and PPI epitopes will be tested in clinically proven vehicles: liposomes, glucan particles, and as a conjugate withrecombinant human albumin. Pharmacokinetic and toxicity testing of the final formulation have been included in this revised application, per the review. Aim 2 is devoted to defining key correlates of efficacy associated with the induction of tolerance byTregitopes in NOD mice, and adaptive tolerance induction in NOD GFP and DO11.10 FoxP3:knock-in mice. Induction of Ag-specific aTregs is an innovative feature of this approach. The long-term goal of this research program is to develop, define, validateand commercialize a novel, first-in-class, safe and effective biological therapy to prevent or treat T1D. We have secured the enthusiastic participation of a regulatory expert (Cavagnaro) and two experienced drug developers (CardioVax, Novozyme) that willsupport our program. Upon successful completion of the Phase II project, we will be well equipped to enter into pre-INDA discussions with the FDA in preparation for T1D-ASATI Phase I clinical trials. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Preserving islet cell function is believed to be a cure for Type 1 Diabetes. EpiVax is developing a novel approach to diabetes based on Tregitopes, small peptides derived from the natural plasma protein, immunoglobulin. Tregitopes prevent or reduce autoimmune destruction of cellsin the pancreas that produce insulin. Successful development of Tregitope therapy would have a radical impact on the field of diabetes therapy and could eliminate the need for insulin therapy in T1D."
Inducing Tolerance to Enzyme Replacement Therapy for Pompe Disease,1R43AI102454-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2012,1,600000.00,"EPIVAX, INC.",146 CLIFFORD STREET,,PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Christine Boyle,,401-272-2123,christine_boyle@epivax.com,Anne S. Degroot,,401-272-2123,annied@epivax.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Inducing Tolerance to Enzyme Replacement Therapy for Pompe Disease Pompe disease is a lysosomal storage disorder caused by defects in the enzyme acid alpha-glucosidase (GAA) that leads to glycogen accumulation affectingheart and skeletal muscle. Enzyme-replacement therapy with recombinant human (rh)GAA saves the lives of children with Pompe disease. The prognosis for patients who have no circulating endogenous GAA (CRIM-negative Pompe disease) is markedly worse. The development of high titers of anti-rhGAA antibody and decreased effectiveness of replacement therapy often result in the death of CRIM-negative Pompe infants in the first year of life. We propose to evaluate the effect of natural tolerance-inducing peptides,Tregitopes, in a murine model of CRIM-negative Pompe disease. Tregitopes cause the expansion and activation of regulatory T cells, suppress inflammatory T cell responses and reduce humoral immune responses to co-administered proteins. In the plan outlinedhere, we will test Tregitopes co-delivered with GAA epitopes, as a tolerance-inducing (1) Prophylactic therapy or (2) Therapeutic treatment of ongoing anti-GAA immune responses. We will evaluate an AAV-vector for Tregitope-GAA epitope delivery. The programwill establish proof-of-principle that will lead to further studies in Phase II. Even a moderate degree of success with the protocol developed here may improve the lives of CRIM-negative babies and could be applied to other enzyme replacement therapies towhich ADA have been induced. An experienced team will carry out the program, including Richard Garman who has extensive experience with the Pompe mouse model, Annie De Groot, a well-established T cell immunologist, Leslie Cousens, Ph.D. expert in Tregitope immunomodulation studies, Tim Messitt, Ph.D. molecular biologist and Federico Mingozzi Ph.D., AAV expert, who will co-develop the Tregitope-GAA AAV vector. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: We propose to evaluate the effect of natural tolerance-inducing peptides, Tregitopes (T regulatory cell epitopes), to induce long-lasting and specific tolerance to enzyme replacement therapy in a murine model of Pompe disease. Proof of principle for Tregitopes in treating anti-drug antibody responses in the context of Pompedisease will have immediate impact on the field of enzyme replacement therapy and could lead to accelerated adaptation of Tregitope therapy in the treatment of these children."
Combined Factor VIII Replacement and Tolerance Therapy for Hemophilia A,1R43HL114308-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2012,1,757712.00,"EPIVAX, INC.",146 CLIFFORD STREET,,PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Elixabeth Mcclaine,,401-272-2123,emcclaine@epivax.com,Anne S. Degroot,,401-272-2123,annied@epivax.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The goal of this new SBIR program is to produce a combined clotting Factor VIII replacement and immunomodulatory therapy that will provide FVIII-specific tolerance induction at therapeutic doses for Hemophilia A patients. Hemophiliacs with lt 1% functional FVIII are classified as severe and must receive regular doses of replacement factor. A major issue with successful FVIII replacement therapy for Hemophilia A is overcoming the neutralizing antibody response against FVIII that is seen in up to 30% of hemophiliacs and 50% of patients with severe disease. These inhibitors delay or inhibit clotting by interfering with FVIII binding to its ligands. A number of treatments for inhibitors exist but these approaches are either not fully successful or still experimental and present a large health risk for the patient. There is an urgent need for a safe, biologically rational and cost effective approach to induce long-term immune tolerance to FVIII. Tregitopes are immunoglobulin-derived natural regulatory T-cell (nTreg) epitopes that expand a subset of circulating nTregs, leading to suppression of inflammation and, when administered with a target antigen, adaptive tolerance. Since publication of this discovery in 2008, we have shown that presentation of Tregitopes at the surface of antigen presentation cells (APCs) to nTregs drives tolerogenic pathways in both APCs and nTregs, and induces target-antigen specific adaptive Tregs that interface with the same APC. Thus, as a natural immune system 'off switch,' Tregitopes have great potential as therapeutics to induce immunological tolerance to co-administered proteins. We therefore propose to couple Tregitopes to FVIII to produce a novel combined replacement and tolerance induction therapy. In this Phase I proof-of concept application, we propose to (i) demonstrate that FVIII-Tregitope modulates human T cell responses and establish correlates of tolerance induction that may be used in clinical trial design and (ii) demonstrate FVIII-Tregitope-mediated tolerance induction in an in vivo hemophilia model, which enables evaluation of Tregitope efficacy on the key outcome - elimination of inhibitors. In future Phase II studies, we will transition to recombinant production of FVIII-Tregitope, a process too complex and costly for proof-of-concept studies. ProBioGen, our Phase II collaborator, is a leading company with expertise in activities central to the manufacture of recombinant human FVIII, including cell line engineering, upstream fermentation, downstream purification, liquid pre-formulation of bulk drug substance and in-process analytics including titer determination and chromogenic determination of FVIII bioactivity. In addition, we have established a strong collaboration with a large Pharma that has experience in the regulatory and clinical trial aspects of FVIII drug development and anticipate that FVIII-Tregitope will move into clinical studies once we achieve the goals of the SBIR program. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Hemophilia A patients do not develop immune tolerance to the very treatment they require, replacement clotting Factor VIII. This research program aims to demonstrate that Factor VIII, when linked to immunosuppressive segments of immunoglobulin, is tolerogenic atnormal therapeutic dosing levels."
Imaging Instrumentation System,N00030-11-C-0033,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,2,671185.00,"DBV TECHNOLOGY, LLC",161 Woodmist Way,,North Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Harold Vincent,Owner&President,(401) 294-4607,bud@dbvtechnology.com,Harold Vincent,Owner&President,(401) 294-4607,bud@dbvtechnology.com,"DBV Technology, LLC proposes to design, build, integrate and test an array of undersea acoustic instruments capable of scoring multiple projectiles impacting the ocean surface closely spaced in both position and time using algorithms developed during Phase I. A 48 month period of performance is proposed consisting of one 12 month base period, with three subsequent 12 month options. Instrument operation and functionality will first be proven in an Engineering Development Test utilizing impulsive sources as surrogates for projectile impacts in a deep water environment representative of missile test areas. Using the data collected during this test, the impact detection and localization algorithms will then be demonstrated. The advantage of this approach is that the instruments can be tested without any disruption to missile test operations and the signal processing and localization algorithms can be demonstrated with unclassified data."
A Smartphone Application for Asthma Patient Self Management and Telemonitoring,1R43HL112368-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2012,1,149977.00,"MJ DATA CORPORATION, LTD",7 Thurber Boulevard,,Smithfield,RI,02917-,Yes,Yes,No,P. A. Minugh,,401-232-3282,aminugh@mjdatacorp.com,Renee N. Saris-baglama,,401-232-3282,rsbaglama@mjdatacorp.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant). Several leading authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), have identified asthma as a priority disease area, and have called for action to reduce chronic disability and premature death due to asthma, to enhance HRQOL through education and improved asthma management techniques, and to improve asthma surveillance activities. In this Phase I project, we will develop and pilot test the Asthma Patient Telemonitoring System (APTS ), to our knowledge the first system that uses smartphone technology to routinely assess asthma control, rescue medication use, and symptoms; uses these data and NAEPP EPR3 guideline-driven interpretation criteria to identify patients at-risk for exacerbation; prompt real-time intervention via instant text messaging [short message service (SMS)]; and efficiently manages data for feedback reporting, data visualization, and electronic health record (EHR) integration. The APTSis a fully integrated data collection, analysis, reporting, and communication system designed to be utilized in the context of clinical care. It will be programmed for administration via RIM Blackberry and Google Android smartphones in Phase I and pilot tested for administrative feasibility. Feedback reports will be designed for patient self monitoring over time. Data and reports will be generated for clinicians to identify patients in need of treatment intervention and to monitor patient status over time.Phase I Aims are to: (1) develop a prototype wireless mobile-ready phone application for asthma telemonitoring; (2) develop initial specifications for the delivery of real time patient-level data and patient, clinican, and aggregate feedback reports; (3)test the feasibility and acceptability of administering the prototype APTS in a clinical setting; and (4) disseminate project results through peer reviewed papers and conference presentations. The product of Phase I will be a prototype Asthma Patient Telemonitoring System (APTS) with preliminary evidence regarding feasibility, performance, and acceptability. In Phase II, we will build, test, and refine a fully functional mobile wireless APTS application, enabling real-time patient monitoring and patient and provider communication. The APTS will be programmed as a software contingent, cross-platform application for use on the RIM Blackberry, Google Android, Apple iPhone iOS, and Microsoft Windows Mobile. Our ultimate goals for this product are to reduce exacerbations and associated health care expenditures from asthma with a practical system that can be used effectively for daily monitoring and early clinical intervention. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: The Asthma Patient Telemonitoring System (APTS) offers patients and clinicians a practical, user-friendly remote monitoring system for the early identification of patients at-risk for exacerbation that has the potential to improve patient-centered care and health outcomes, and ultimately decrease costs associated with asthma care management."
"Expediting the Production of High Value, Standardized, and Transparent Data",1R44TR000030-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2012,1,132789.00,"MJ DATA CORPORATION, LTD",7 Thurber Boulevard,,Smithfield,RI,02917-,Yes,Yes,No,Kathy Ivey,,401-232-3282,kivey@mjdatacorp.com,P. A. Minugh,,401-331-1500,aminugh@mjdatacorp.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Researchers and contractors are under increasing pressure to produce rapid turnaround times for data releases and publications. Inadequate data management is a common threat to good research and impedes the quick release of high value data. Despite its importance, many organizations do not have standardized data management practices that allow them to prepare high quality datasets quickly, effectively, and with transparency. As a result, production delays, inefficiencies, inconsistencies, and data errors are common. This proposal describes the development of a practical, user-friendly electronic tool, the Data ExpediterTM (DE) Syntax Generator, which uses step-by-step data management procedures combined with cutting edge,innovative algorithms to standardize and automate processes involved in creating high quality analytic files. Designed with researchers in health, social, and educational sciences in mind, the product walks the user through a best practice model for datamanagement, specifically for tasks involved in creating clean and accurate data analytic files. Readily available metadata, syntax, and reports make monitoring studies, creating new databases, controlling data file releases, implementing changes, analyzingdata, and training new project staff faster and more cost effective than ever. Phase I aims are to: (1) develop and test a working prototype; (2) conduct focus group research to assess the acceptance of the prototype; and (3) develop a full set of functional specifications. Upon demonstration of Phase I feasibility, Phase II aims are to: (1) build the commercialized DE Syntax Generator; (2) conduct usability testing to demonstrate ease of use; (3) conduct field tests in actual research settings at Harvardand Brown Universities; and (4) develop educational and product support materials. As an outcomes-driven innovation, the product will occupy a unique place in the market with its guided data management process and large array of automation tools. The products provides a unique and affordable solution to a common problem by using a standardized, uniform framework and automated syntax generation while allowing data users (e.g., researchers, administrators, those working with electronic patient records) to house data in their existing statistical software. The DE Syntax Generator replaces the chaotic, slow, and error-ridden, data management process with an organized, streamlined, and complete sequence of steps with interwoven quality control and automation to ensure rapid production of quality data. The DE Syntax Generator will improve the efficiency of studies, enhance data sharing, and decrease data and reporting errors. In sum, the product addresses an unmet need by helping researchers and data managers to follow state-of-the art practice guidelines for data management (transparency and proper documentation of all procedures) while getting the job done better, faster, and less expensively. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: The Data Expediter Syntax Generatorsoftware application offers health, social, and education researchers a practical, cost-effective solution for managing, rapidly processing and documenting study data utilizing technology that makes these high-value activities readily transparent. The product has the potential to decrease data and reporting errors, increase data quality, improve research study efficiency, and enhance data sharing."
"Responsible Drinking: Internet-based, Interactive Computer Tailored Intervention",2R44AA017333-02A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2012,2,883065.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice Prochaska,,401-874-4109,jmprochaska@prochange.com,Leanne M. Mauriello,,401-874-2017,lmauriello@prochange.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Excessive alcohol use is associated with a range of serious and costly health, social, and economic consequences at the individual and societal level. This program of research serves as a venue by which to produce and test an innovative, science-based, and cost-effective means to intervene in a private, convenient, and individualized way with employed adults who report non-dependent levels of risky drinking. Responsible Drinking offers computer-tailored intervention sessions directed at increasing readiness to limit drinking to national guidelines for low-risk drinking and a complementary dynamic web portal providing additional information, activities, and strategies designed to activate and reinforce the change process.Both e-Health intervention components are stage-matched, individually tailored based on theoretically grounded behavior change strategies, and designed to be interactive and engaging. Mobile health (m-Health) technologies, including theoretically tailoredand stage-matched text messaging and mobile device browsing optimization, will be integrated to support the behavior change process, engagement in the program, and convenient delivery. The successful completion of Phase I demonstrates that Responsible Drinking is acceptable to risky drinkers, capable of producing intention to make behavior changes, and feasible to disseminate via the Internet to employed adults. The primary goals of Phase II are to complete and enhance the development of the e- Health intervention components, to add m-Health technologies, and to assess the effectiveness in a randomized clinical trial involving 614 employed adults who exceed low-risk drinking levels. This application offers innovation through offering a population-based approach, a sophisticated level of tailoring on theoretically grounded constructs, and combining e-Health and m-Health technologies. An evidence-based secondary prevention program will offer tremendous commercial benefit to help employers, insurers, disease management, and wellness companies reduce the financial, personal, and societal costs of excessive alcohol use. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Given the range and severity of health, social, and economic consequences of excessive alcohol use, promoting responsible drinking among non-dependent drinkers is of great public health importance. This research proposes to develop and test an Internet-based, individualized, and interactive program for employed adults who exceed the national guidelines for low-risk drinking. With a theoretical and science-based foundation and a cost-effective and easily deliverable platform, this intervention offers great promise to improve the health and well-being of populations of risky drinkers."
Computerized Stage-Matched Intervention for Juvenile Offenders,2R44DA024900-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2012,2,1551869.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice Procahska,,401-874-4100,jmprochaska@prochange.com,Deborah A. Levesque,,401-360-2975,dlevesque@prochange.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Juvenile crime imposes enormous costs on victims, on society, and on juvenile offenders themselves. However, research assessing the efficacy of interventions for young offenders show, on average, only small effects on recidivism, substance abuse, and other behavioral outcomes. A major problem with existing interventions is that they tend to neglect individual differences in motivation and readiness to make positive changes. In earlier research, we used an empirically validated model of behavior change, the Transtheoretical Model (TTM, the stage model), and expert system technology to develop the Rise Above Your Situation program (RAYS), a prototype of a multimedia computerized tailored intervention designed as an adjunct to traditional juvenile justice programs. The intervention delivers assessments and individualized feedback matched to readiness to stay out of trouble with the law and quit alcohol and drugs. At the end each session the program also generates counselor report that summarizes the youth's feedback and presents concrete, easy-to-implement strategies counselors can use to reinforce stage-matched concepts. In the current research, the goals are to complete development of the computerized tailored intervention; develop training and other support materials for counselors; and assess the efficacy of the intervention package in a randomized clinical trial involving 1,000 court-involved juveniles aged 13-17. Primary outcomes will be criminal recidivism and substance abuse abstinence at 6 and 12 months follow-up. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Juvenile crime imposes enormous costs on victims, on society, and on juvenile offenders themselves. The RAYS TTM-based intervention, which delivers assessments, individualized feedback, and counselor reports matched to youths' readiness to stay out of trouble with the law and reduce substance use, has the potential to increase programs' responsivity to youths' needs; make more efficient use of scarce program resources; improve professional adherence to evidence-based practices; and improve outcomes."
Rapid detection of neonatal sepsis,1R43HD069243-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2012,1,498061.00,"PROTHERA BIOLOGICS, LLC",551 Warren Avenue,,EAST PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Yow P. Lim,,401-301-2046,yplim@protherabiologics.com,Yow-pin Lim,,401-301-2046,yplim@protherabiologics.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The primary goal of this proposed research is to develop a rapid point-of-care (POC) test that can be used to identify neonatal sepsis in high-risk infants in a simple, user-friendly and portable device suitable for usein the NICU setting. Since sepsis presents a very serious threat to neonates, there is an urgent need to obtain confirmation as soon as possible. Currently, there are no reliable, POC markers for this life threatening disease. Blood culture results are considered the gold standard for bacterial sepsis, but confirmatory results may not be available until at least 48 hours. In this proposal, we will attemp to develop a quantitative rapid test based on Inter-alpha Inhibitor Proteins (IAIP) that has been recently demonstrated as a valuable biomarker with high sensitivity and specificity (89.5% and 99%, respectively) and a high positive and negative predictive value (85% and 98% respectively) for neonatal sepsis. We hypothesize that endogenous IAIP, as part of the innate immune response, protect against the damaging effects of proteases released during acute systemic inflammation following severe infections, burn, trauma and injury. As a consequence, these proteins are rapidly consumed and excreted in the urine,leading to a rapid decrease in plasma levels. Furthermore, the IAIP level seems to inversely correlate with disease severity and progression, thus, a rapid IAIP test with result that can be obtained within 10- 15 min would be useful as a diagnostic and/ortheranostic marker in neonatal sepsis. The proposed specific aims of the study are: 1) Validation and comparison studies of the predictive value of IAIP alone and with other biomarkers in detecting infants with sepsis and systemic inflammation and 2) Prototype development of a quantitative lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) for IAIP that can be used to diagnose neonatal sepsis and NEC. As a replacement therapy with plasma derived IAIP has been demonstrated to be effective in experimental models of sepsis and clinical trials in adult septic patients are currently underway, our long-term objective is to study the efficacy of concomitant IAIP treatment in critically ill infants due to suspected sepsis or NEC with low levels of IAIP as revealed by the rapid test.By combining the predictive test and therapeutic replacement of plasma derived IAIP, this novel approach may offer a rational, targeted solution for reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with neonatal sepsis and NEC in infants. Furthermore, an IAIP-based rapid test will provide an objective means for reducing antibiotic overuse in infants with suspected but unproven systemic infection. The potential impact of the proposed research is immense when one considers the serious unmet medical need for infants who suffer from the devastating effects of neonatal sepsis and NEC. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: The goal of this proposed research is to develop a rapid test that can be used to detect life-threatening conditions such as whole body infection (sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis) in infants using a simple, user-friendly and portable device suitable fo a bedside testing in the neonatal intensive care unit. The test is based on the level of blood proteins called Inter-alpha Inhibitors that are consumed during the disease. The faster the patient is diagnosed and treated, the better the prognosis and a chance of fewer complications. The potential impact of the proposed research is immense as it will reduce the devastating effects of these diseases."
Submarine ES System RF Groom&Certification,N66604-10-C-0382,DOD,NAVY,STTR,2012,2,499387.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,Tom Cranson,Contracts Officer,(401) 847-2260,tcranson@seacorp.com,William Goneau,Project Manager,(401) 847-2260,bgoneau@seacorp.com,"US Navy submarine forces currently employ an independent team to test, measure, calibrate and certify radio frequency (RF) signal paths through sail mounted antennae to the inboard radio rooms in a process that can take in excess of 60 man-days to complete. Ships personnel have no means of calibrating or performing an operational verification of the ES suite once underway. Ships have no means of performing a comprehensive post-repair retest or comparison to a previously collected RF performance specification. It is strongly desirable for the submarines to have a capability to organically perform these functions, as needed, without significant outside assistance. The shore-based facilities where modernization and maintenance normally occurs are well suited to supporting, with expertise and equipment, the initial groom and certification needs for these submarine platforms. When emergent maintenance needs arise, the navy incurs significant cost and effort to conduct recertification of these platforms. Deployment and mission demands may dictate a need to continue with operations without awaiting the resources and expertise necessary to perform recertification. This may result in compromised system performance, loss of system capability, invalidation of mission-related data collection or threat to ownship due to failure of threat recognition or classification."
Ultra Wide Bandwidth High Dynamic Range Digital ISR Receivers for the submarine force,N00024-12-C-4125,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,2,743381.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,Elizabeth Goetz,Contracts Officer,(401) 847-2260,egoetz@seacorp.com,William Goneau,Project Manager,(401) 847-2260,bgoneau@seacorp.com,"This effort to improve the capabilities of the ESM system will increase the reliability and reduce lifecycle support costs of the Radar Wideband (RWB) subsystem on submarines. Analog to digital converter (A/D) based digital receivers will be applied to yield improvements in Radar signal acquisition and processing. In-phase and Quadrature (I/Q) data streams will be created from which intra pulse modulations may be derived. Improvements for intercept and characterization will include: shorter and longer pulse width processing, signals with dynamic pulse repetition intervals, signals with frequency agility, and solid state transmitters. This will allow the Electronic Warfare systems the capability to meet the challenges brought about by the emergence of complex Continuous Wave (CW) solid state radars that threaten the stealth and secure operations of the submarine force. This will improve the submarine mission readiness and effectiveness."
Inflator-Based Submerged Missile Ejection System (ISMES),N00030-12-C-0036,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,2,725695.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,Elizabeth Goetz,Contracts Officer,(401) 847-2260,egoetz@seacorp.com,Barry Holland,Principal Investigator,(401) 847-2260,bholland@seacorp.com,"Since the advent of impulse launching various payloads from Navy and other military combatants, the source of the impulse energy has been either an explosive gas generator (propellant) or stored high pressure gas in a flask. Both of these methods have high maintenance and/or clean-up costs and are typically limited to one type or size of payload per launcher device. This limits operational flexibility and increases logistical complexity and cost. SEA CORP has developed a family of impulse launchers that use COTS automotive air bag inflators that significantly expands the capability and flexibility of any single launcher design to employ a number of payloads. The inflators, widely used in the automotive industry, are small cylinders containing a highly compressed inert gas that is released when a small initiator is electrically actuated. By changing the number, size, and initiation timing of the inflators, the launcher can be adjusted to accommodate various payloads that have different impulse requirements. The technology was originally developed under a NAVSEA SBIR to launch light weight torpedoes up to 740lbs from surface ships. In the proposed application, SEA CORP will adapt the technology to provide the impulse energy to eject missiles from submerged submarines."
Development of Low Temperature Ultracapacitor,W911NF-12-C-0099,DOD,ARMY,STTR,2012,1,99671.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,"Vincent A.Yevoli, Jr.",President/COO,(860) 599-1100,vyevoli@yardney.com,Joseph Gnanaraj,Senior Scientist,(860) 599-1100,joeg@yardney.com,"The objective of this Phase 1 effort is to develop an asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) that provides>10 Wh/kg energy density and a high power density, and maintains this performance down to -55 degrees C. Yardney Technical Products (YTP), a recognized specialty high energy battery manufacturer in Pawcatuck, CT in collaboration with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) proposes to design, develop and demonstrate an ASC meeting the above performance metrics. This ASC will ultimately be integrated with a low temperature lithium ion battery (LIB) as part of a hybrid power system for Army applications. During Phase I of this effort, low temperature electrolytes previously developed by JPL for use in symmetric supercapacitors (SC) and capable of operating down to -75 degrees C will be further developed and adapted for use in an asymmetric format featuring a high-energy nanostructured lithium titanate electrode. Suitability of other ASC systems such as lithium manganese oxide will be investigated and the best system will be selected for further studies."
Advanced Power Storage Systems for Interceptors,HQ0147-12-C-7910,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,1,99710.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,"Vincent A. Yevoli, Jr.",President/COO,(860) 599-1100,vyevoli@yardney.com,Joseph Gnanaraj,Senior Scientist,(860) 599-1100,joeg@yardney.com,"The objective of this proposal is to develop a high-energy and high-power hybrid system consisting of a lithium ion (Li-ion) battery in conjunction with an ultracapacitor (UCAP) for advanced power storage systems for interceptors. Yardney Technical Products (YTP), the world leader in cutting-edge Li-ion battery technology proposes to design, develop and test new improved materials for several cell components to provide higher energy density, better low temperature (below -20 & #61616;C) performance, higher DoD in life cycling without significant loss of cycle life. The program first optimizes then characterizes the energy density of Li-ion. (>275Wh/kg). These results are then used to design the capacitor system. The proposed space-quality high energy and high power density hybrid system can accommodate long duration missions for Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) applications."
"Battery Management, Monitoring and Diagnostic Device for Navy Energy Storage Modules",N00024-12-P-4036,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,1,79432.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,President/COO,(860) 599-1100,vyevoli@yardney.com,Greg Moore,Project Manager,(860) 599-1100,gmoore@yardney.com,"Yardney Technical Products in conjunction with Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory is proposing to progress development of an advanced monitoring system for batteries, provide a modular battery unit, and develop a system approach to monitor and control multiple power sources and loads. Battery monitoring will be advanced via a technique to determine the internal temperature of each cell in a battery, thereby providing an opportunity to detect if a cell is approaching initiation of thermal runaway. The system will balance various parallel power sources to maintain thermal control of each by providing an opportunity to take one that is detected to be in jeopardy offline. The modular battery design will provide a unit consisting of cells and a battery management system, having advanced monitoring and control capabilities, as a standalone unit, or readily capable of arranging in a parallel and/or series configuration to meet requirements. This proposal addresses an advanced system monitoring and control approach, and a battery whose benefit is not to address""how to fail safely,""but rather how to prevent failure by detecting the anomalous behavior of a cell well before it fails."
High Energy Density Chemistry Source for Temporary Torpedo Electrical Power,N00024-12-P-4084,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,1,79829.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,President/COO,(860) 599-1100,vyevoli@yardney.com,Frank Puglia,Director of Research and,(860) 599-1100,fjpuglia@yardney.com,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc., with SBIR partners, Brown University and Fraunhofer LLC, propose to develop a high energy density, high power, bipolar battery. Bipolar battery designs are inherently the most volumetrically efficient batteries. Further, the elimination of the external intercell connections greatly improves the rate capability and solves the issue of making a very low capacity, high voltage system such as the one needed for the torpedo. The purpose of this novel cell design, with newly developed enabling technologies, is to replace the currently used system and to provide both performance and cost advantages. The proposed chemistries have passed UN and 9310 safety testing in formats with higher levels of stored energy. More importantly, the proposed chemistries have demonstrated calendar life well in excess of the 12 year goal for this program. The new availability of nano-scale active materials for the proposed chemistries along with the novel bipolar design have allowed for a low capacity ("
Novel Methods to Improve Performance of Silver-Zinc Batteries,N00024-12-C-4118,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,2,730464.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,COO,(860) 599-1100,Vyevoli@yardney.com,Greg Moore,Project Manager,(860) 599-1100,gmoore@yardney.com,"The goal of this project is to take silver-zinc battery technology to a new level for programs important to the Navy. Silver-Zinc batteries provide high energy and power density cells, and since the electrolyte is a water-based alkaline fluid, provide a comparatively safe battery. A disadvantage to this technology is large format cells, which are required to provide high power, do not provide comparable cycle life performance to competing systems. There are two main issues. One is the negative electrode, having redox products being zinc and zinc oxide, experiences non-uniform re-plating of the zinc upon charging. The mass tends toward the bottom of the current collector as the cell accumulates cycles. The other issue is the separator, commonly used cellophane, experiences degradation due to the strongly oxidative positive silver oxide electrode. The primary work will be to advance from the Phase I to the Phase II the further refinements of circumventing the shortcomings of silver/zinc. This includes incorporating binders with the negative electrodes to limit dissolution of the electrode while cycling and developing a non-cellulosic cellophane replacement. Also included will be advances in thermal pathway to remove heat from cells during discharge and providing an advanced silver/zinc battery management system."
Uncertainty-based 3-d Fusion of Multi-Sensor Aerial Imagery,FA8650-12-M-1459,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2012,1,149898.00,"Vision Systems, Inc.",72 Water Way,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,Vishal Jain,Computer Vision Scientist,(401) 427-0860,vishal.jain@verizon.net,Vishal Jain,Computer Vision Scientist,(401) 427-0860,vishal.jain@verizon.net,"ABSTRACT: Multi-sensor fusion is a key capability required for effective inferences for timely and accurate strategy and tactical planning. A multi-sensor fusion technology needs to appropriately weigh different image streams according to the uncertainties and errors across different inputs and parameters such as GPS and INS measurements, sensor model parameters, inherent ambiguities of the data such as localization for featureless region and errors due to registering data in a common frame in each source of data for effective fusion. Vision Systems, Inc. propose to fuse aerial imagery via 3-d models using subjective logic to represent and account for various uncertainties. Additionally, the 3-d models will be registered by computing a 3-d to 3-d transformation. BENEFIT: Remote Sensing, surveying, evacuation and emergency planning, visualization and navigation."
Coherent Distributed Aperture Enabled Active Electronically Steered Array (CDA-AESA),HQ0147-11-C-7699,DOD,MDA,STTR,2011,2,1245963.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael Sherry,Vice-President,(401) 295-0062,msherry@appliedradar.com,Michael Deaett,Principal Engineer,(401) 295-0062,miked@appliedradar.com,"Missile threats faced by our country are constantly increasing in lethality. The weapon used to counter such missiles is the kinetic interceptor. To work effectively, the reentry vehicle (RV) location must be precisely known. Confusing objects within the reentry complex make the key discrimination process very difficult. Coherent distributed aperture (CDA) radar represents an important advance in precision discrimination capability. To maintain performance, high angular resolution utilizing active electronically steered arrays (AESAs) subtending many wavelengths, is required. Such AESAs will operate at X-band. It is therefore important to develop newer and lower cost X-band components. During Phase I, we investigated technologies essential to making cost effective, low-power-density, large aperture AESAs work. We identified the digital receiver-exciter (DREX) as a critical AESA element that remains to be developed. The DREX must support high bandwidth CDA orthogonal waveforms. For interoperability, the interfaces to the DREX must incorporate a radar open system architecture (ROSA) interface and respond to radar control and data acquisition commands with minimal latency. The research that we propose will result in a functioning DREX prototype that meets these requirements. As a result, a range of CDA advanced performance verification experiments will be enabled."
Spread Spectrum Digital Beamforming for Millimeter Wavelengths (MMW-SSDBF),W31P4Q-11-C-0236,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,1,99998.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael Sherry,President,(401) 295-0062,msherry@appliedradar.com,Marcos Bergamo,Vice President of Technology,(401) 295-0062,mbergamo@appliedradar.com,"Key to phased arrays that can scale to high frequencies, bandwidth and large apertures is an architecture that enables full digital beamforming and large-array performance with minimum electronics per element. Out of the three proven beamforming methods for phased arrays: analog, conventional digital and spread spectrum digital beamforming (SSDBF), just the latter scales well to large arrays at high frequencies-and-bandwidth while being supportive of""one-shot""area search and simultaneous multiple-target tracking. SSBDF flexibility and scalability to MMW frequencies result from five complementary capabilities that will be included in the proposed MMW-SSDBF: (1) phase shifters used not for beamforming but for return signal multiplexing; (2) full-quality digital beamforming with one-bit phase shifters and single up/down converter and Nyquist rate DAC/ADC for the array; (3) orthogonal codes to detect cross-polarizations; (4) virtual array technologies supportive of high-resolution beamforming with spaced transmitters and receivers; (5) software-define radar implementation. Applied Radar proposes to develop the system architecture, design phase shifters and simulate the performance of a SSDBF system that will scale in frequency (e.g., up to 300 GHz) and to large virtual arrays in Phase I, and develop a prototype radar system and demonstrate its performance at 100 GHz in Phase II."
Wideband Sub-Array Digital Receiver Exciter (DREX),W9113M-11-C-0011,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,2,994268.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael A. Sherry,President,(401) 295-0062,msherry@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,CEO,(401) 295-0062,wweedon@appliedradar.com,"Next-generation ground-based BMD radar is anticipated to employ a scalable architecture with multiple low-cost transportable arrays employing hundreds of thousands of elements per array. Low-cost analog array panels are to be employed in the array, and wi"
Wideband Sub-Array Digital Receiver Exciter (DREX),HQ0147-11-C-7697,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,2,999999.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael A. Sherry,President,(401) 295-0062,msherry@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,CEO,(401) 295-0062,wweedon@appliedradar.com,"Next-generation ground-based BMD radar is anticipated to employ a scalable architecture with multiple low-cost transportable arrays employing hundreds of thousands of elements per array. Low-cost analog array panels are to be employed in the array, and will typically contain a digital receiver/exciter (DREX) behind a subarray group of typically 64 or 256 elements. The combination of element-level analog beam steering and subarray digital beamforming allows for multiple simultaneous receive beams which are digitally controlled. A wideband DREX increases target discrimination capability, along with a great degree of flexibility in the waveform control and anti-jam capability. Applied Radar is developing a DREX solution to meet the needs of next-generation BMD radar under a spiral development process. This DREX interfaces with the MIT/LL Radar Open Systems Architecture (ROSA) for beam-steering and waveform control as well as back-end radar processing. This proposed Phase 2 effort improves upon the current VME-based DREX hardware, and includes demonstrations with available array hardware. Additionally, further effort will be made towards integrating the DREX with the array hardware. Emerging chip-level transceiver technologies are to be investigated towards the goals of reducing DREX size, weight and cost. We also look at the possibility from the DREX perspective of separating the transmit and receive functions of the radar into physically separate arrays, as well as cohering multiple arrays."
Power-Efficient Adaptive-and-Robust Link OFDM (PEARL-OFDM),N66001-11-C-5221,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2011,2,483453.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael Sherry,President,(401) 295-0062,msherry@appliedradar.com,Marcos Bergamo,Vice President of Technol,(401) 295-0062,mbergamo@appliedradar.com,"Key obstacles to extending OFDM to wireless links and networks at high frequencies with dynamic channels are inherent low performance to Doppler and power amplifier operation with high backoff. Other significant obstacles are multipath and impulsive noise. PEARL provides a solid communications infrastructure with support for incremental relevant capabilities including TRANSEC and LPD/LPI. For this, PEARL integrates two layers of OFDM technologies with different Truly Shift Orthogonal Codes (TSOC): one with randomly chirped codes and intrinsic TRANSEC characteristics dedicated to""variable rates""and another with linearly chirped codes and intrinsic robustness to Doppler. A novel Split-Phase Shift-Keying modulation overlay layer""makes""resulting OFDM signals suitable for saturated power amplifiers. PEARL-OFDM multi-layer architecture enables full-range rates that maximizes connectivity, adds unparalleled robustness to high-rate Doppler, has inherent robustness to narrowband fading and impulsive noise and achieves near-optimum power conditioning of typical variable envelope signals enabling power amplifiers operation at near saturation. In Phase I Applied Radar designed, developed the algorithms and simulated the performance of the combined PEARL technologies. In Phase II we will build a software-define-radio testbed including channel emulators, port algorithms, demonstrate the PEARL practical feasibility and performance and initiate its transition to an actual JTRS radio platform."
Low cost acoustic transmitter,N00014-11-M-0292,DOD,NAVY,STTR,2011,1,80000.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David Brown,"President, Director of Re",(401) 261-9318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,Corey Bachand,Research Engineer,(401) 261-9318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,We propose the development of a low cost compact low frequency transducer with associated electronics using a novel method.
Piezoelectric Single Crystal Property Assessment for Cost-Effective Optimized Naval SONAR Transducers,N00014-11-M-0200,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,1,80000.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David Brown,"President, Director of Re",(401) 261-9318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,David Brown,"President, Director of Re",(401) 261-9318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,"Experimental evaluation of the electromechanical properties of relaxor piezoelectric single crystals under stress, thermal, electrical bias conditions is proposed through the use of various dynamic and static evaluation methods. The proposed phase I effort concentrates on evaluation of properties of PMN-PT using resonant bars, and Lumped-Parameter (L-P) dumbbell resonators under pressure loading and temperature biasing conditions."
Sensitive and Shape-Specific Molecular Identification,W911NF-11-C-0239,DOD,ARMY,STTR,2011,1,99848.00,Ryon Technologies,200 Massasoit Ave.,,East Providence,RI,-,No,No,No,Edel Minogue,Strategy&Business Development,(401) 523-5277,edel@ryontech.com,Joseph Geiser,Senior Research Scientist,(401) 714-8275,joseph.geiser@ryontech.com,"The ability to rapidly detect, identify and monitor chemical agents remains a challenge of significant importance to the Armed Forces. Existing chemical sensing techniques have shortcomings that inhibit widespread implementation. To address this situation, Ryon Technologies is developing a portable instrument that is based on Rydberg Fingerprint Spectroscopy (RFS) in combination with mass spectrometry (MS). The dual detection of the RFS signal and the MS signal provides a two-dimensional readout where each molecule is positively identified through its mass and its structural fingerprint. This unique approach ensures that all molecules can be unambiguously identified, allowing the monitoring for chemical agents without false alarms. Because of the inherent sensitivity of detecting charged particles, very minute amounts of material will be possible to analyze. The development focuses on reducing all dimensions of the apparatus, including the vacuum envelope and the sample inlet. Through computational modeling the design is optimized for maximum sensitivity with the minimum number of parts."
Adaptive Data Fusion for Real-time Threat Assessment,N00167-11-P-0149,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,1,79956.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,Elizabeth Goetz,Officer of Contracts and,(401) 847-2260,egoetz@seacorp.com,John Murphy,Project Manager,(401) 847-2260,jmurphy@seacorp.com,"Electronic Support (ES) systems are among the fundamental instruments used for threat detection onboard Navy surface, sub-surface, and air platforms. They are tasked to sense the RF environment, to sort out all emitters, measure key associated parameters, and contribute to a comprehensive situational awareness with respect to all activity occurring in the RF spectrum. As threat systems evolve, numerous ES systems are developed or refined to contend with the ever varying RF landscape. To keep pace with these changes, ES systems need to evolve to deal with increasing sophistication of emitters, creating an inherent gap between the ways emitters are represented in different ES systems. Because of this ongoing engineering evolution, it is not uncommon to have two or more heterogeneous ES systems aboard a war fighting vessel causing the same emitter sensed from one ES system to have a representation in a second ES system that is different and not directly comparable. A system designed to perform adaptive data fusion is well-suited to addressing this problem because it will significantly improve the operator""s ability to detect and analyze valid threat signals in and electronic environment that is growing at a rapidly increasing rate."
A Lithium-Air Battery with a High Energy Air Cathode,NNX11CE39P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2011,1,99726.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,John Dufrat,Business Official,8605991100,jdufrat@lithion.com,Dr. Arthur Dobley,Principal Investigator,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"This project will advance an efficient and lightweight energy storage device for Oxygen Concentrators by developing a high specific energy lithium-air cell. Specifically the project advances high specific energy cells by focusing on the catalysts in the cathode and anode protection of our existing cells under various oxygen atmospheres for NASA applications. Our high-energy air cathodes will be improved upon and incorporated into the cell designs. Several different chemically composed air cathodes will be investigated. Lithium-air cells produce power by the lithium reacting with the oxygen in the cathode. The anticipated result of the phase 1 project is a bench top operational cell (TRL4). Advantages of the proposed lithium-air cell include a high energy density, safe and lightweight design, and a high energy density cathode."
A Martian Air Battery,NNX11CF96P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2011,1,99785.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,John Dufrat,Business Official,8605991100,jdufrat@lithion.com,Dr. Arthur Dobley,Principal Investigator,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"This project will investigate an entirely new battery chemistry by developing A Martian Air Battery. Specifically the project will explore the concept of a Martian battery that utilizes in-situ resources to produce energy for NASA applications. Our experience producing high-energy air cathodes for our work with existing metal-air systems will be utilized during this program. Our established air cathodes will be modified, to accommodate a Martian environment, and incorporated into cells. Several different chemically composed cathodes will be investigated. The anticipated result of the phase 1 project is a new battery. Advantages of the proposed Martian battery include a light weight source for in-situ energy production. In addition the conceptual battery will be capable of atmospheric gas collection and separation."
Hybrid Battery Ultracapacitor System For Human Robotic Systems,NNX11CG30P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2011,1,99630.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,John Dufrat,Business Official,8605991100,jdufrat@lithion.com,Dr. Joe Gnanaraj,Principal Investigator,8605991100,joeg@lithion.com,"The objective of this proposal is to develop a hybrid battery-ultra capacitor storage system that powers human-robotic systems in space missions. Space missions involving human-robotic systems utilizing battery based electrical power often undergo numerous operations within each complete cycle. During Phase I of this program Yardney in collaboration with Maxwell Technologies propose to develop a hybrid system consisting of a high energy Li-ion battery, high power ultracapacitor (UCAP) and the electronic interface control module. The hybrid system to be developed in this program will provide electrical energy to human-robotic systems for advanced next generation space missions."
High-energy High Power Lithium ion Battery for Advanced Space Power Technologies,HQ0147-11-C-7629,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,1,99378.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,"Vincent A. Yevoli, Jr.",President/COO,(860) 599-1100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joseph Gnanaraj,Senior Research Scientist,(860) 599-1100,joeg@lithion.com,"The objective of this proposal is to develop a high-energy and high power lithium ion (Li-ion) battery for advanced space power technologies. Yardney Technical Products (YTP), the world leader in cutting-edge Li-ion battery technology proposes to design, develop and test new improved materials for all cell components to provide higher energy density, better low temperature (below200Wh/kg) high power (charge at C rates to>4.5V EoC and discharge at 10 rates) rechargeable Li-ion battery can accommodate long duration space missions for improved on-orbit calendar life of 10-15 years for low earth orbits (LEO), medium earth orbit (GEO, and MEO), applications. During the Phase I of the program YTP will develop new Li-ion cell chemistry with composite alloying anode materials and surface modified cathode that can charge up to 4.5V at C-rates and discharge at 10C rates."
Safe High Rate and Ultra High Capacity with Minimum 4.0 Amp. hour 18650 lithium ion rechargeable cell,W15P7T-11-C-A025,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,1,99558.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,"Vincent A. Yevoli, Jr.",President/COO,(860) 599-1100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Malgorzata Gulbinska,Lead Material Scientist,(860) 599-1100,mgulbinska@lithion.com,"This proposal addresses the Army""s need for rechargeable 18650-type lithium-ion cells with specific energy greater than 300 Wh/kg for Land Warrior applications. The proposed cells will allow a Soldier to drastically extend the mission run time and reduce the frequency of changing the batteries. The improvements in specific energy will be achieved by radical enhancements of the cell""s chemistry and introduction of the next generation, high energy active materials in both cathode and anode. Cell safety improvements will also be implemented as a part of this effort. In this project, high capacity/energy cathode based on lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide active material, capable of delivering ~250 mAh/g during C/10 discharge, with an average discharge potential of 3.55 V will be set against the high capacity, nano-engineered anode, based on silicon-carbon active material, capable of delivering>1000 mAh/g, and both electrodes will be implemented into 18650-type lithium-ion cells."
Lithium ion battery separator development,W56HZV-11-C-0315,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,1,99485.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,"Vincent A. Yevoli, Jr.",President/COO,(860) 599-1100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joseph Gnanaraj,Senioir Scientist,(860) 599-1100,joeg@lithion.com,"The objective of this project is to develop low cost composite microporous polyethylene based separator with oxidation-resistant and high permeability. Manufactured separators will be characterized for its physical, mechanical, electrochemical properties, performance, wettability, thickness, porosity. The new separators will be studied in lithium ion cells, optimized and qualified for better characteristics. The improved thermal stability and mechanical strength of the new composite separator will improve the safety, performance, and extend the life of the Li-ion battery to suit Army""s tactical military vehicle power requirement"
Lithium Ion Battery and Ultracapacitors Hybrid for Satellite Power,FA9453-11-C-0167,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,2,731794.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,"Presidnet, Chief Operatin",(860) 599-1100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joe Gnanaraj,Senior Scientist,(860) 599-1100,joeg@lithion.com,"ABSTRACT: The objective of this Phase II proposal is to develop a hybrid Li-ion/ UCAP system for space power use. Long term space missions utilizing battery based electrical power subsystems often undergo thousands of charge/discharge cycles and short high rate discharge cycles over the length of the mission. During Phase II of this program Yardney in collaboration with Maxwell Technologies propose to develop a hybrid system consisting of high energy Li-ion, high power ultracapacitor (UCAP) and the electronic interface control module. The hybrid system to be developed in this program will maximize end of life Li-ion battery performance in space power applications. BENEFIT: Air Force Application: The target application for this Li-ion/UCAP hybrid system is in space power Air Force applications where long life safety, longer cycle life, and long-term stability are required. This new technology will have superior electrochemical performance even at high rate discharge and long term cycle life due to UCAP interface and the electronic control unit module. Non Military Application: Li-ion/UCAP hybrid systems with high power and long life will benefit all DoD, National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) spacecraft applications, military and commercial communication satellite and even Hybrid Electric Vehicles."
Improved Safety in Large Format Lithium-Ion Cells and Batteries,N00024-11-C-4014,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2011,2,749105.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,COO,(860) 599-1100,Vyevoli@yardney.com,Greg Moore,Project Manager,(860) 599-1100,gmoore@yardney.com,"Li-ion batteries are attractive candidates for use as power sources in military, aerospace, commercial, and vehicular applications. Outstanding properties of Li-ion include longer battery life, reduced weight and size, lower maintenance costs, higher power capacity and higher energy densities. However, there are issues with making a truly safe Li-ion battery. For this project, Yardney has approached making a safer battery by incorporating modeling and testing, and based on that moving forward towards larger cells for Navy applications. Though a goal is to make a Li-ion cell incapable of failing, reality has us accepting a cell failure, but preventing that occurrence from propagating. Improvements include materials internal to the cell to decrease the risk of an event and its magnitude upon such an occurrence, and then considering cell geometry and inter-cell separators to 1) remove that heat as rapidly to a""safe zone""as possible, and 2) to block a majority of the heat from causing a neighboring cell to also reach it""s activation energy for thermal runaway. In addition, electronics play a major role in monitoring, and in this project Yardney is incorporating some of their latest electronics to provide a hearty monitoring system, and a safer Li-ion battery."
SBIR Phase I: Improving the healing of problematic skin wounds with topical application of growth factors derived from choroid plexus.,1046862,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2011,1,150000.00,CYTOSOLV INC.,155 Pelletier Lane,,Tiverton,RI,02878-3007,No,No,No,Chris Thanos,DPhil,4012286088,cgthanos@gmail.com,Chris Thanos,,4012286088,cgthanos@gmail.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will focus on the development of a therapeutic gel containing the full complement of naturally occurring growth factors secreted by the choroid plexus (CP) for use in the active wound care market, including problematic superficial skin wounds such as diabetic ulcers. High doses of single recombinant factors have shown limited value in treating these wounds, with long-term side effects manifesting after cumulative exposure to milligram quantities. The unique technology that CytoSolv has developed employs multiple CP proteins to elicit a synergistic ?cocktail? effect that reduces the cumulative exposure to any one protein, while enhancing the pharmacologic impact by involving multiple regenerative pathways. The broader/commercial impacts of this research extend to tissue regeneration, and CytoSolv has initiated preclinical development to treat diabetic ulcers. These wounds are responsible for the majority of lower extremity amputations in the world, and are among the principal reasons for hospitalization of diabetic patients, accounting for 25% of all admissions in the US. Recently developed biologic therapies have not been widely accepted clinically due to inconsistent evidence of useful efficacy. As a result, the problem of managing complications of diabetic ulcers remains a major source of disability and cost to our health care system, with an active wound care market estimated at $20 billion in the US alone, and more than 115 companies delivering products for 5.7M patients. The goal of the current project is to develop an inexpensive, efficacious therapy based on the CP factor technology."
Development of a Topical Choroid Plexus Factor Product to Accelerate Wound Healin,1R43GM095078-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2011,1,225683.00,CYTOSOLV INC.,155 Pelletier Lane,,Tiverton,RI,02878-3007,No,No,No,Christopher Thanos,,401-228-6088,cgthanos@cytosolv.com,Christopher G. Thanos,,401-573-2001,cgthanos@cytosolv.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Chronic superficial wounds are difficult to treat and often never completely heal. Diabetic foot complications account for the majority of lower limb amputations in the world, and 25% of all diabetic hospital admissionsin the US. The standard of care for these wounds has been unchanged for decades, and remains reduced weight bearing, debridement, antibiotics, and dressings. Other therapies have been examined, including vacuum-assisted closure devices, biomaterial-baseddressings, and growth factor therapies. Their impact has been marginal, with little clinical improvement over placebo controls, and often with increased risk of complications. Growth factor therapy, while promising, has not translated into dramatic clinical success with high doses of single exogenous factors. For example, Regranex topical gel (high dose recombinant platelet- derived growth factor), improves closure of diabetic ulcers but with an increased retrospective incidence of cancer. CytoSolv, Inc., has developed technology to simultaneously deliver multiple regenerative factors derived from cultured choroid plexus (CP) to accelerate wound healing at low therapeutic doses. These factors are present in the cerebrospinal fluid of normal adults, as the CPforms the blood- cerebrospinal fluid barrier and is involved in growth factor maintenance. Vascular endothelial growth factor, platelet derived growth factor, connective tissue growth factor, and transforming growth factor beta are among hundreds of potentially regenerative factors secreted by the CP. The synergy of the collective activities of CP factors allows CytoSolv's technology to potentially overcome the limitations and side effects of mono-factor therapy by delivering lower doses over reduced treatment duration. Pilot studies using lyophilized CP factors to treat wounds in normal rats revealed faster healing and vastly improved histological quality of healed tissue compared to topical antibiotic controls, including features such as hair follicles and other dermal appendages. These findings, coupled with the impressive portfolio of bioactive agents in the CP secretome, provide support for continued investigation. The potential clinical applications of an acellular CP product are numerous, but diabeticulcers represent the greatest unmet need and our first target. The extent of ischemic disease in these individuals could be well served by the multiple biologic activities contained within the CP transcriptome. The proposal contained within this SBIR application seeks to (i) continue development of a topical product by incorporating factors secreted by the CP in culture supernatant into a non-occlusive dressing that provides at least 24 hours of continuous factor delivery, as determined in vitro; and (ii)assess the formulated product in open wounds created in the splinted db/db mouse model of Type I diabetes. These projects will provide fundamental data within a 6-month time frame that will allow the company to continue its goal developing a topical product to rebuild damage tissue in diabetic ulcers, and may also uncover additional information relevant to the pursuit of alternative disease indications. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: The naturally occurring cocktail of bioactive molecules secreted by the choroid plexus is being developed by CytoSolv, Inc., as a topical regenerative product for accelerating superficial wound healing. The factors, which include many that are currently used in high dose mono-therapies to treat various forms of problematic wounds, range in biological activity from inflammation, to angiogenesis, to tissue rebuilding, and have demonstrated the ability to accelerate and improve the quality of wound repair in pilot studies in normal animals. CytoSolv aims to further characterize, formulate, and assess this early stage product in db/db diabetic mice, representing a stringent wound model with inherent healing impairments that mimic the company's target indication, diabetic ulcers."
Lung nodule detection using 3D visual palpation via standard thoracoscopes,1R43EB013523-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2011,1,179894.00,LUCIDUX,3 Davol Square,"Suite A340, Box 188",PROVIDENCE,RI,02903-4710,No,No,No,Jason D. Harry,,401-354-2899,jason.harry@lucidux.com,Jason D. Harry,,401-354-2899,jason.harry@lucidux.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Surgeons perform tens of thousands of operations each year to resect suspicious lung nodules. Historically this necessitated an open surgical approach (thoracotomy) through a large chest wall incision. Over the last 10-15 years, minimally invasive surgical (MIS) approaches have become increasingly common in abdominal and thoracic surgery, with significant benefits accruing to both patients and healthcare economics. However, one key aspect of open surgery is missing in MIS: direct tissue palpation (touch). While a mere nuisance for many MIS procedures, the loss of tactile feedback is critically important during thoracoscopic lung biopsies and resections as it is very difficult to detect nodules beneath the lung surface. This significantly increases the risk of missing a nodule and can force the surgeon to abandon the minimally invasive approach, open the chest, and perform direct manual palpation. Pre-operative techniques to nodule localization have been used with varying success, but all involve complex CT-guided marking and bulky intraoperative instruments. Engineers and scientists have undertaken the technical challenge of restoring palpation in MIS. An array of devices is described in the literature, and many are indeedcapable of locating hidden nodules. Significantly, however, none is in common use; they are cumbersome, potentially injurious, difficult to interpret, and expensive. When surgeons need to feel for nodules during MIS, they resort to enlarging the incision and sticking a finger into the hole. In this research project, we will test the ability of a new three-dimensional image acquisition technology to provide real-time visual palpation for sub-surface lung nodules. The eventual goal of the program is to offer a medical video camera product that, combined with common operating room equipment, provides the first practical, intuitive, immediate, and low cost means of non-touch palpation in MIS. A recently developed opto-electronic device acquires high-resolution3D topographic data at video frame rates through standard medical scopes. By deflecting the lung surface inward with a momentary gas jet, relatively harder nodules located below the surface will alter the deflection of the overlying tissue and be seen asaberrations in the surface topography. The 3D topographic data can be analyzed and enhanced for display in real time to the surgeon, immediately and intuitively revealing the hidden nodule. The specific aims of this project are (1) design and fabricate a small gas-jet probe that connects to a medical insufflator, (2) write custom software for topographic analysis to tag surface aberations created by hidden nodules, and (3) test the system on excised animal and human lung tissue. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Surgery to remove cancerous lung nodules from saves lives. The preferred minimally invasive surgical approach can miss nodules when they have grown beneath the surface of the lung. This project strives to develop and test a practical, intuitive, and low-cost 3D image acquisition and analysis solution to the problem of locating hidden lung nodules."
Treatment of stroke using a novel PDZ binding peptidomimetic drug.,1R43NS074651-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2011,1,352596.00,ARDANE THERAPEUTICS,1 Davol Square,Suite 200,PROVIDENCE,RI,02903-,No,No,No,Andrew P. Mallon,,401-863-1429,andrewmallon@ArdaneTherapeutics.com,Elizabeth Garcia,,401-863-1429,elizabethgarcia@ArdaneTherapeutics.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Abstract Stroke is the third leading pathological cause of death, behind heart and cancer (NCHS mortality data.). We are developing a new drug, CN 2097, that has demonstrated therapeutic potential for stroke. CN 2097 obstructs the propagation of the cell death signal whilst not interfering with normal neuronal transmission, thus reducing the incidence of side effects and toxicity but allowing the titration of a therapeutic dose. This Phase I SBIR study will involve confirming the therapeutic potential of this drug by confirming its favorable pharmacokinetic profile and proving efficacy in the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) model. The first milestone will be producing sufficient additional quantities (500mg) of CN2097 to complete the pre-clinical in-vivo studies proposed in Aim 2. The second milestone will be the demonstration that CN 2097 has sufficient bioavailability and stability to cross the blood brain barrier and prevent MCAo-induced ischemic stroke neuronal damage and the significant decrease of disabling injury. Based upon our previous results we anticipate that CN 2097 will be an effective treatment in the MCAo model of stroke and will attain therapeutic brain concentrations. Completion of these reliable animal model studies will allow us to enter Phase II development of CN 2097, focusing on toxicology and dosage form design in preparation for Clinical trials. SBIR provides a bridge that will translate our laboratory studies into a Clinical treatment for stroke. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Narrative This project is designed to undertake pre-clinical trials that will provide compelling evidence that this innovative drug, CN 2097, has the potential to prevent or treat the damage caused by stroke. Stroke is simultaneously one of the deadliest diseases and also one of the most undertreated; the emergence of this drug as a viable treatment will eliminate stroke as a major threat to humans. This will result in a drastically changed public health climate, resulting in less disability and longer, more productive life spans amongst the victims of stroke."
SBIR Phase I: Replacement of Toxic and Polluting Cleaning Processes Using Vacuum Cycle Nucleation,0945074,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2010,1,140050.00,METFAB,40 Minnesota Ave.,,Warwick,RI,02888-6011,No,No,No,Stuart M. Raifman,MS,4017326677,sraifman@metfabtech.com,Stuart M. Raifman,MS,4017326677,sraifman@metfabtech.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop a vacuum-based cleaning process that relies on the tendency of vapor bubbles to form at surface crevices where contaminate particles lodge. Upon implosion, the bubbles release a large amount of localized energy meant to dislodge particles. By focusing energy at the surface, less energy is required than in processes which add a lot of heat or energy equally across the entire solvent stream.
The broader societal/commercial impact of this project will be to reduce the amount of chemicals, energy, and water required for cleaning parts. It also reduces the need for hazardous cleaning solvents which create environmental and health risks. Potential applications for this cleaning process range from auto to medical and semiconductor parts."
Immunotherapeutic Biomaterials for Treatment of Glioma,1R43NS071879-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2010,1,333214.00,"IN CYTU, INC.",6 Blackstone Valley Place,,LINCOLN,RI,02865-4257,No,No,No,,,,avasco@incytu.com,Dwaine F. Emerich,,4018213500,EMERICH@SOMACYTE.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): A Phase I SBIR program of preclinical development is proposed focusing on the development of an active specific immunotherapeutic called Cellarium for treatment of glial cell-based cancers. Successful completion
of this project will establish the minimum level of therapeutic feasibility and lead to further development of the vaccine in preparation for first-in-human studies. Upon demonstration of safety and efficacy, Cellarium would provide a greatly- improved,
targeted treatment for glioma patients, which currently have dismal survival prognosis, are expensive to treat, and for whom current treatments can be debilitating and painful. Gliomas are widespread deadly diseases for which current therapies are inad
equate. In the US gliomas accounted for 44% of the 22,070 cases of brain and other nervous system cancers diagnosed and 12,920 associated deaths in 2009. Recent studies have also shown trends toward increased incidence of glioma in US adults. Currently,
gliomas are predominantly treated with an aggressive three step protocol. Despite this regime, patients with Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM), the most common and deadly malignant brain tumor, still have a median survival of less than 15 months. Moreover,
the estimated cost of treatment for each patient with a malignant brain tumor ranges from 30,000 to several hundred thousand dollars annually. Based on the Cellarium technology platform developed at Harvard University, this in situ vaccine, which inc
orporates well-established biological cofactors and patient specific cell lysate, attracts dendritic cells (DCs), exposes them to the tumor specific antigens, and then releases them to direct a bolstered, targeted immune response against malignant tissue
. Support is requested to refine vaccine formulation and demonstrate initial efficacy and safety in an in vivo therapeutic glioma model, an in vivo tumor resection model8 and biocompatibility studies. If Phase I studies are successful, the Cellarium vac
cine will continue to be developed for clinical trials which the eventual goal being scaled manufacture in the US and sale as a commercially available specific immunotherapeutic vaccine to treat glioma patients. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: We pro
pose to develop an active specific immunotherapeutic vaccine that helps the body's own immune system identify and then attack cancerous glial cells. This device, if validated, could give physicians and their patients a much needed therapy prolong surviva
l and improve treatment of glioma, a disease which currently affects around 21,560 US citizens, has a 15 month median survival time and can be both painful and harmful to treat. Furthermore, this therapy would offer a significant cost reduction to the h
ealth care system by not only supplanting the need for the current, expensive treatment regimes but also preventing additional expenditures that stem from the side effects of current treatments."
SBIR Phase I:Rydberg Fingerprint Spectroscopy for Sensitive Identification of Isomerically-Dependent Environmental Pollutants. Test Case: Dioxins,1013149,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2010,1,149798.00,Ryon Tech,3 Davol Square,Suite 301,Providence,RI,02903-4762,No,No,No,Joseph D. Geiser,BArch,4015235277,joseph.geiser@ryontech.com,Joseph D. Geiser,BArch,4015235277,joseph.geiser@ryontech.com,"This SBIR Phase I project will develop a spectroscopic device for detecting and discriminating congeners of isomeric compounds based on their Rydberg spectroscopic ""fingerprints."" It enables the development of a new analytical tool for the detection of dioxins which are environmental contaminants that arise from combustion of organic materials in the presence of chlorine. Dioxins build up in human tissues, causing long-term health problems including cancer, diabetes, endometriosis and others. The toxicity of many isomers is unknown, as it is difficult to selectively identify many isomeric forms of dioxins. Current analytical methods involve mass spectrometry (MS), or tandem-MS techniques. However, the former cannot identify individual isomers, while the latter lacks sufficient sensitivity to reach low detection limits.
The broader/commercial impact of the project will be to potentially impact the $6 billion worldwide market for mass spectrometers, of which the investigators expect to capture 1 percent, or $60 million. In addition, differentiation of isomeric forms with high sensitivity in a compact form-factor would be a new and welcome capability in multiple scientific fields, including air pollution monitoring, toxicology, and exposure assessment."
"Development of an In Situ Thermal Extraction Detection System (TEDS) for Rapid, Accurate, Quantitative Analysis of Environmental Pollutants in the Subsurface",EPD10062,EPA,EPA,SBIR,2010,2,224786.00,"Ion Signature Technology, Inc.",51 Industrial Dr.,,North Smithfield,RI,02896,No,No,No,John Moore,,4017674360,,John Moore,,4017674360,,"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in its publication Technology News and Trends in 2009 featured the Navy's work that saved 6 years and $3 million delineating chlorinated solvent plumes in soil and groundwater. The Navy used EPA's TRIAD process, which incorporates systematic planning, field analytics, and dynamic work strategies, during its hazardous waste site investigation. A direct sampling ion trap mass spectrometer was used to transport pollutants from depth to the surface for analysis. Although excellent data were obtained, the technology cannot collect and analyze semivolatile organics (SVOCs).
Only Ion Signature Technology, Inc. (IST) has developed technology to collect VOCs and SVOCs at depth and transport the sample to the surface for analysis without organics adsorbing or condensing in the transfer line. In Phase I, IST found new material to develop a high temperature membrane inlet probe (MIP). When the MIP is at 300°C, organics efficiently desorb and extract from soil and at 100°C, collect from groundwater without bringing soil or groundwater to the surface for analysis. In addition, two new freeze traps and a new transfer line gas flow system were designed and tested, which met their respective specifications as established in the objectives.
The goal of this Phase II SBIR is to integrate all of the disparate technologies into a turnkey system so that end users can ""sniff"" EPA method 8260 VOCs and 8270 SVOCs as the MIP is advanced into the subsurface at the rate of 2 cm/sec. The thermal extraction and detection system (TEDS) will incorporate electron capture and photoionization sensors to provide real-time, in situ chemical detection of pollutants. Once sensor responses exceed baseline signals, the MIP will stop automatically, with gas flow switching from the sensors to the freeze trap so that pollutants can be concentrated and quantified by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). All analyses will be made online, at discrete depths, and recorded electronically for upload into site conceptual models. When combined with geological and hydrogeological data, conceptual models emerge that depict the location and rate of movement of subsurface pollutants. TEDS fits squarely within EPA's mission and importantly, EPA's TRIAD process. The objective is to provide defensible data to better manage site investigations and cleanups. EPA has shown that when projects employ the TRIAD process, which encompasses systemic planning, dynamic work strategies, and real-time chemical measurements, remediation costs are reduced."
Software Defined Wideband DREX Receiver,HQ0006-10-C-7385,DOD,MDA,STTR,2010,1,99998.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael A. Sherry,President,4012950062,msherry@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,CEO,4012950062,wweedon@appliedradar.com,"To realize next generation missile defense radar systems with a significant improvement in performance requires more cost effective system implementations. Software defined radar (SDR) technologies together with field programmable gate array (FPGA) implementations promise reusable and low cost DREX multichannel receivers in smaller form factors. Real time firmware reconfiguration enables radar mode modifications in response to dynamic signal environments. To validate these capabilities and advantages, our team will investigate three advanced missile defense radar SDR benchmarks: 1) multichannel digital equalizers to compensate for manufacturing variances, 2) dynamically assignable channelized (DAC) filtering to enable spectral resource management and 3) multichannel independent phase dithering for system spur reduction. We will follow a modular, macro-based firmware development process that maximizes firmware maintenance and reuse. Our existing DREX prototyping testbed will be used to demonstrate the channelized SDR firmware. The innovative spur reduction processing incorporates novel SDR firmware into unique chip-level CMOS synthesizer hardware developed by our research partner. Application consistency is maintained through the use of ROSA open system interfaces. Our team's unique background in missile defense radar research enables us to conduct hardware tradeoffs of SDR radar technology during Phase I to confirm the benefits of software defined radar technology."
Open System Manufacturing of Large Sensing/Weapons Platforms,W31P4Q-11-C-0034,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2010,1,98998.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael Sherry,President,4012950062,msherry@appliedradar.com,William Weedon,CEO,4012950062,wweedon@appliedradar.com,"In order to maintain our nation's technological superiority on air, sea and land, we must respond quicker to emerging threats and reduce the cost of major sensing platforms. Every DoD platform developed nowadays contains at least one sensor, whether it be RF, EO/IR, or acoustic. In fact, in a lot of recent developments, the platform is built around the sensor and exists only to support the sensor and possibly a weapon. This is certainly evident in the proliferation of unmanned vehicles. In the conventional defense acquisition paradigm, the entire sensing/weapons platform is developed by a single prime contractor with proprietary interfaces. In order to reduce cost and speed up development to respond to emerging threats, a new defense acquisitions and manufacturing process is needed that is more closely aligned with low-cost commercial processes and practices. We propose an approach that (1) utilizes open architectures for both hardware and software; (2) employs re-usable sub-assembly building blocks; (3) takes advantage of a software-defined architecture to maintain flexibility. This new manufacturing paradigm will be formalized in Phase 1, and demonstrated in a large-scale phased-array radar system platform application in Phase 2."
Multi-Band Airborne SAR/GMTI System Development,FA8650-10-M-1813,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2010,1,99998.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael A. Sherry,President,4012950062,msherry@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,CEO,4012950062,wweedon@appliedradar.com,"A multi-band airborne synthetic aperture radar and ground moving-target indicating (SAR/GMTI) radar system will be designed and developed that will utilize multiple frequency bands to improve the radar imaging and target detection performance in various clutter environments. Applied Radar's existing wideband digital receiver/exciter (DREX) hardware is inherently capable of supporting radar applications from HF through Ka-bands. Switching in various transmit/receive (T/R) front ends will allow the DREX hardware to be used in various discrete radar bands such as UHF, S, L, C or X-band, with a common digital back-end. A wideband common-aperture antenna is needed to support these various frequency bands, and will be a focal point of this research and development. Existing Applied Radar Vivaldi antenna designs currently support ~10:1 bandwidth, which would cover for example S-band through X-band. We are looking to extend this coverage down to UHF so that the developed system would cover UHF through X-band. In Phase I, requirements and specifications for the multi-band SAR/GMTI system will be developed, which will be implemented in a rooftop system in Phase II. In Phase III, the airborne radar will be flown on Applied Radar's corporate aircraft testbed. BENEFIT: The proposed airborne SAR/GMTI system has application for both military and commercial applications including homeland security border patrol, search and rescue, and environmental/geographic sensing. While other airborne SAR/GMTI systems currently exist, the proposed effort will attempt to extend the frequency coverage over existing systems to cover multiple frequency bands, and will also reduce system cost by focusing on a lightweight system that can eventually be implemented on a medium-sized UAV such as a Predator drone."
Wideband Multi-Channel AESA Manifolds,N68335-10-C-0255,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2010,1,80000.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael Sherry,President,4012950062,msherry@appliedradar.com,William Weedon,CEO,4012950062,wweedon@appliedradar.com,"Multi-channel array manifolds are required for wideband AESA applications. In modern solid-state AESA arrays, MMIC-based T/R modules generally utilize digitally-controlled phased shifters to steer the beam on transmit and receive. The given phase value is only accurate at one frequency, and so for wide bandwidths of several hundred MHz (at X-band for example), the beam does not get formed properly and significant dispersion is encountered, particularly at wide scan angles. This may be avoided by using multiple frequency-overlapped pulses, where the MMIC phase shifters are adjusted for the different frequency pulses, and combined digitally. Alternately, time-delay compensation may be used in a multi-beam system such as a Rotman lens or a Blass matrix. Monopulse sum/difference processing may also be replaced with multi-beam processing in this case. Such a beamforming network may be readily implemented in stripline circuitry, and Applied Radar has both the design tools and experience to implement such a design. Applied Radar recently implemented a 3x8 Blass matrix at X-band, which may be used as the basis for this design. Combining the beamformer manifold outputs into a switch matrix fed to three parallel receivers is also readily accomplished. Applied Radar proposes to design the multi-channel wideband AESA manifold in Phase I, and build and test a prototype in Phase II."
Power-Efficient Adaptive-and-Robust Link OFDM (PEARL-OFDM),N00039-10-C-0064,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2010,1,69999.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael Sherry,President,4012950062,msherry@appliedradar.com,Marcos Bergamo,Technical Director,4012950062,mbergamo@appliedradar.com,"Key obstacles to extending OFDM to wireless links and networks at high-frequencies and dynamic channels are inherent low performance to Doppler and power amplifiers operation with high back-off. Other significant obstacles are multipath and impulsive noise. PEARL-OFDM combines a layered architecture with technologies that mitigate such obstacles and enable full-range rates that maximizes connectivity, add unparallel robustness to Doppler over dynamic channels, has inherent robustness to narrowband fading and impulsive noise that drastically reduces ""adaptation rates"" and maximizes connectivity, and achieves near-optimum power conditioning of typical variable envelope signals enabling power amplifiers operation at saturation. PEARL provides a solid infrastructure for incremental addition of relevant capabilities including TRANSEC and LPD/LPI. For this, PEARL integrates two chirp OFDM technologies with different Truly Shift Orthogonal Codes (TSOC): one with randomly chirped codes and intrinsic TRANSEC characteristics dedicated to ""variable rates"" and another with linearly chirped codes and intrinsic robustness to Doppler. A novel Split-Phase Shift-Keying modulation overlay ""makes' resulting OFDM signals suitable for saturated power amplifiers. Applied Radar proposes to design, develop and simulated the performance of the combined PEARL technologies during Phase I, and develop a software-define-radio testbed and demonstrate PEARL's performance over relevant military channels during Phase II."
Materials and Device Modeling to Reduce Cost and Time to Exploit Relaxor Piezoelectric Single Crystals in Navy SONAR Transducers,N00014-09-C-0755,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2010,2,595635.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David Brown,"President, Director of Re",4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,David Brown,"President, Director of Re",4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,"We propose the development of a compact broadband underwater cylindrical transducers with integrated tuning networks and power amplifiers for Mobile Acoustic Counter Measures. There is a need for cost effective transducers that are broadband and have broad-beam coverage. BTech has designed and built improved counter measure transducers as well as acoustic modem transducers using both PZT materials as well as designs using segmented single crystal (PMN-PT) rings, which offer increased bandwidth and electroacoustic efficiency. Our innovative PZT and single crystal transducer technology, combined with state-of-the-art power amplifier designs, will provide cost effective compact broadband solutions."
Cost-Effective PiezoCrystal Transducer Assembly Technologies,N00014-10-M-0139,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2010,1,69722.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David Brown,President; Director of Re,4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,David Brown,President; Director of Re,4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,The design and development of piezocrystal sonar transducers is a challenging multidisciplinary and technological effort that spans many fields and skill sets. We look to extend and improve our transducer assembly technologies to reduce cost and implementation time for sonar technology transition and in particular our methods for Active-Passive single crystal ring development and fiber glass wrapping to pre-stress segmented ring assemblies.
Optimum Control of Induction Generators for Water Current Energy Harnessing,WC133R10CN0215,DOC,DOC,SBIR,2010,1,94972.50,Electro Standards Laboratories,36 western Industrial Drive,,Cranston,RI,02921-,No,No,No,"Raymond B. Sepe, Jr.",Vice President Research & Engineering,4019431164,rsepe@electrostandards.com,"Raymond B. Sepe, Jr.",Vice President Research & Engineering,4019431164,rsepe@electrostandards.com,"Optimization of generator performance and maximization of output power are difficult to attain in the generation of hydro-power. This is due to the changing water conditions and corresponding changes in the form of available energy. ESL proposes to use self-tuning controls in combination with a suitably chosen and optimized generator driven by hydro-energy and condition it for distribution to then power grid. The proposed approach is to use control to maximize power generation while maintaining generator efficiency, despite changes in water conditions and electrical load demands.
"
Forward Bathymetry and Obstacle Avoidance Sensing for Safe High Speed Boat Operation Using 3D Forward Looking Sonar,N00014-10-M-0166,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2010,1,70000.00,"FarSounder, Inc.",95 Hathaway Center,Suite 5,Providence,RI,02907 0377,No,No,No,Cheryl Zimmerman,President,4017846700,cheryl.zimmerman@farsounder.com,Matthew Zimmerman,VP Engineering,4017846700,matthew.zimmerman@farsounder.com,"In order to improve the safety and efficiency of navy high speed small boat operations, FarSounder proposes a 3-dimensional, forward looking sonar solution capable of simultaneous bathymetry sensing and obstacle detection out to ranges of at least 1640 ft (500m). Additionally, the system will be cable of 50 knot operation and suitable for installation on a high speed planing vessel such as common 11-meter RHIBs: the SOCHRIB, NSW RHIB, and certain classes of Unmanned Marine Vessels (UMVs). Additionally, the system will be designed to include a simple to use and understand human interface as well as a machine interface suitable for integrating the sonar''s data output into 3rd party command and control systems."
Sustainable Nitric Acid Production Using Non-thermal Plasma,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2010,1,89890.00,"FLIGHT SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES, INC.","1130 Ten Rod Road, Suite E102",,North Kingstown,RI,02852,No,No,No,Neal E. Fine,Chief Technology Officer,4015957379,nfine@flysafetech.com,Neal E. Fine,Chief Technology Officer,4015957379,nfine@flysafetech.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop a new process for fixing nitrogen from air in the form of nitric acid using non-thermal atmospheric plasma with a heterogeneous catalyst. Reductions in the cost of producing nitric acid (in comparison with existing state-of-the-art processes) will lead to the reintroduction of well-established and tested methods for producing fertilizers consisting of sodium, potassium or calcium nitrate using nitric acid as the nitrogen feedstock. This will by-pass the ammonia synthesis step in the production of nitrogen fertilizers while eliminating the costly dependence of nitrogen fertilizer on natural gas."
SBIR Phase I:Decontamination of Fresh Produce with Atmospheric Plasma,1013364,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2010,1,104280.00,"FLIGHT SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES, INC.","1130 Ten Rod Road, Suite E102",,North Kingstown,RI,02852,No,No,No,Kimberly Kelly-Wintenberg,DEng,8657773776,kwintenb@advancedplasmaproducts.com,Kimberly Kelly-Wintenberg,DEng,8657773776,kwintenb@advancedplasmaproducts.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop and test a non-thermal atmospheric plasma food processing technology to reduce microbial populations on fresh produce. The technology will reduce the risk of foodborne infections while decreasing microbial spoilage, preserving the fresh attributes and nutritional quality of the produce while avoiding the deposit of unwanted by-products. The proposed development will leverage previous research concerning the destruction of infectious agents by atmospheric plasma. In this project, a Plasma Produce Sanitizer prototype will be developed to treat pre-packaged produce. Key parameters, including plasma power and exposure time, will be varied in seeking a preliminary design and concept of operations that will yield up to 4-log reduction in microbial load without negatively impacting the food quality or shelf life.
The broader/commercial impacts of this research will be realized through a reduction in the health and economic impacts associated with food borne illness. According to the USDA, foodborne illnesses account for about 1 of every 100 U.S. hospitalizations and 1 of every 500 U.S. deaths, while costing the country $6.9 billion in medical costs and lost productivity annually. While the impact has been reduced in recent years through improved detection and traceability of contaminated food, the rate of food contamination has held steady and the economic burden has shifted to the food industry in the form of increased food recalls. For example, in 2007 the California spinach industry lost close to $100 million following an E-Coli outbreak."
Promoting Health During Pregnancy: A Multiple Behavior Computer Tailored Interven,2R44DP001115-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2010,2,686750.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice M. Prochaska,,4018744100,jpadula@prochange.com,Leanne M. Mauriello,,4018742017,LMAURIELLO@PROCHANGE.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Pregnant women, particularly those from underserved populations, often have a multitude of behavioral risks that threaten positive pregnancy and birth outcomes, as well as the future health of mother and baby. This application represents innovative research for impacting the promotion of healthy behaviors among pregnant women. The objective is to develop and test the first computer tailored intervention for pregnant women to address multiple behavioral risks. Healthy Pregnancy: Step by Step offers tailored guidance on the adoption and maintenance of smoking cessation, stress management, and fruit and vegetable consumption. This application offers innovation through the use of varying levels of tailoring across behaviors and a co-variation design through which multiple behaviors can be treated effectively and efficiently. The successful completion of Phase I demonstrates that a stage-matched computer tailored intervention is acceptable to pregnant women, feasible to disseminate in health clinics in conjunction with prenatal care, and has initial efficacy with multiple behaviors. The primary goals of Phase II are to complete and enhance the development of the intervention and to assess the efficacy in a randomized clinical trial involving 368 pregnant women from two non-profit health centers that treat underserved populations. In addition, supplemental intervention components will be created including printed feedback reports, a multiple behavior stage-based manual, and Spanish versions of all intervention materials. This intervention offers a cost-effective, science- based, and easily deliverable solution to improve multiple health behaviors, and overall health and well-being, of populations of pregnant women. Support from several distribution channels bolsters the commercial potential for this program and the promise for widespread dissemination. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Promoting healthy behaviors during pregnancy and postpartum is of great public health importance. This research proposes to develop and test a population-based, multiple health behavior change program for pregnant women that offers guidance on the adoption and maintenance of smoking cessation, stress management, and fruit and vegetable consumption. This computer tailored intervention offers a cost- effective, science-based, and easily deliverable solution to improve multiple health behaviors, and overall health and well-being, of populations of pregnant women."
Role of Inter-alpha Inhibitors in Anthrax Intoxication,2R42AI062095-03A1,HHS,HHS,STTR,2010,2,2679882.00,"PROTHERA BIOLOGICS, LLC",551 Warren Avenue,,EAST PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Yow P. Lim,,401-301-2046,yplim@protherabiologics.com,Steven M. Opal,,401-729-2545,Steven_Opal@brown.edu,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Anthrax is recognized as a class A bio-threat microbial pathogen that is readily weaponized and exceedingly difficult to treat. This bacterium is highly virulent inducing lethal infection in immunologically normal hostsby its intrinsic capacity to disseminate rapidly and induce sepsis, along with its ability to generate two highly potent exotoxins, lethal toxin and edema toxin. In phase I of our STTR grant, we successfully demonstrated that a unique set of plasma proteins from human blood collectively known as Inter-alpha inhibitor proteins (IAIP) can salvage susceptible mouse strains with established anthrax spore-induced bacterial sepsis when administered concomitantly with standard antimicrobial agents. The level of protection afforded was significantly greater than that observed by antibiotic therapy alone. The dual actions of IAIP against anthrax as a systemic protease inhibitor therapy for sepsis and a specific anthrax toxin inhibitor make it a potentially attractive treatment strategy for managing patients who are infected with anthrax. IAIP has a documented safety record in clinical medicine as this endogenous human protein has already been used in clinical trials in patients with sepsis and other systemic inflammatory states. This existing clinical data indicates that IAIP could be rapidly deployed in the event of a bioterrorist event for actual clinical use with a reasonable level of assurance of its safety and efficacy. This phase II STTR grant application will expand upon these promising findings and provide the necessary preclinical confirmation of the therapeutic value of this protein as a biodefense strategy against anthrax. The proposed studies will have three major aims. The first aim is to scale up production of highly purified IAIP for human use and determine the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of these human proteins in two animal models of anthrax intoxication. The second aim will focus upon formulation and optimization studies of lyophilized IAIP to achieve a product with greater stability and the longer shelf life that is a prerequisite for the stockpile biodefense program. The final aim of this project will be the preclinical testing of IAIP therapy in two established large animal models of anthrax infection to satisfy the Animal Rule in the development of therapeutic agents against this biohazardous pathogen. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: This Phase II STTR project is focused on the product development of inter-alpha inhibitor proteins for theprotection of anthrax exposure from the possible occurrence of bioterrorism. The therapeutic proteins offer a unique, two-fold action by fighting the inflammation caused by exposure and targeting the cleaving enzyme responsible for anthrax toxicity."
Ultra Wide Bandwidth High Dynamic Range Digital ISR Receivers for the submarine force,N65538-10-C-0044,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2010,1,79981.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,Tom Cranson,Contracts Officer,4018472260,tcranson@seacorp.com,William Goneau,Project Manager,4018472260,bgoneau@seacorp.com,"This effort to improve the capabilities of the ESM system will increase the reliability and reduce lifecycle support costs of the Radar Wideband (RWB) subsystem on submarines. Analog to digital converter (A/D) based digital receivers will be applied to yield improvements in Radar signal acquisition and processing. In-phase and Quadrature (I/Q) data streams will be created from which intra pulse modulations may be derived. Improvements for intercept and characterization will include: shorter and longer pulse width processing, signals with dynamic pulse repetition intervals, signals with frequency agility, and solid state transmitters. This will allow the Electronic Warfare systems the capability to meet the challenges brought about by the emergence of complex Continuous Wave (CW) solid state radars that threaten the stealth and secure operations of the submarine force. This will improve the submarine mission readiness and effectiveness."
Lithium Ion Battery and Ultracapacitors Hybrid for Satellite Power,FA9453-10-M-0130,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2010,1,99618.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,"Vincent A. Yevoli, Jr.",President/COO,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joseph Gnanaraj,Sr. Research Scientist,8605991100,joeg@lithion.com,"The objective of this proposal is to develop a UCAP/Li-ion hybrid system for space power use. Long term space missions utilizing battery based electrical power subsystems often undergo thousands of charge/discharge cycles and short high rate discharge cycles over the length of the mission. During Phase I of this program Yardney in collaboration with Maxwell Technologies propose to develop a hybrid system consisting of high energy Li-ion, high power ultracapacitor (UCAP) and the electronic interface control module. The hybrid system to be developed in this program will maximize end of life Li-ion battery performance in space power applications. BENEFIT: Air Force Application: The target application for this Li/UCAP hybrid system for space power Air Force applications where long life safety, longer cycle life, and long-term stability are required. This new technology will have superior electrochemical performance even at high rate discharge and long term cycle life due to UCAP interface and the electronic control unit module. Non Military Application: Li-ion/UCAP hybrid systems with high power and long life will benefit all DoD, National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) spacecraft applications, military and commercial communication satellite and even Hybrid Electric Vehicles."
Advanced Lithium Ion Batteries for Space-based Applications,FA9453-10-C-0035,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2010,2,749437.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,"Vincent A. Yevoli, Jr.",President/COO,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joseph Gnanaraj,Sr. Scientist,8605991100,joeg@lithion.com,"The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of developing advanced chemistries that allow batteries to operate safely at increased power density via improved discharge rate; higher energy density via improved battery packaging and improved coating of internal components(cathode and anode material); increased cycle life and depth-of-discharge via improved material stability; exceptional durability when exposed to extremes in temperature via an improved binder system; and a decrease or total elimination of the calendar-life limitations of lithium ion batteries (Li-ion) through the improved stability and improved binder system. YTP has proposed to develop advanced Li-ion batteries for space-based application by improving the battery materials, electrode processing and the cell chemistries. During Phase I of this program, YTP has successfully demonstrated the Phase I proof of concept of this proposal by focusing on developing novel electrode manufacturing technology and surface modified electrode materials. Phase II of the program will incorporate the Phosphate coated materials, cell chemistries and new processes developed in Phase I to fabricate prototype cells for test under LEO-type test profiles. Power output and energy capacity will be scaled up to levels appropriate for integration into battery packs to demonstrate the path forward for subsystem-level performance. BENEFIT: The target application for this surface modified cathode based Li ion battery is in Air Force applications where safety, longer cycle life, high energy density and power densities are required. This new technology will have superior performance even at low and high temperatures due to robust electrode coating method and surface modification of the electrode materials."
Thermally Stable High Energy Lithium-Ion Batteries for Naval Aviation Applications,N68335-10-C-0160,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2010,2,748455.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,President/COO,(860) 599-1100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Frank Puglia,Director of Research&De,(860) 599-1100,fjpuglia@lithion.com,"Lithium-ion batteries (LIB) have been widely used and intensely investigated for the last decade. However, commercial cells have several problems in trying to meet the performance requirements typical of military applications. Most notable is impedance growth and capacity loss upon storage or prolonged at temperatures above 60oC.1,2 In order to develop more durable, high-energy power sources for Navy aircraft applications elevated temperature performance must be improved. Yardney Technical Products, Inc. and researchers at the University of Rhode Island have been working on the development of innovative technologies and systems with the goal of increasing the life and viable operational environment of Li-Ion batteries. Previous work, and work completed in Phase 1 of this effort can be directly applied to batteries for naval applications. It is noted that the Phase 2 effort includes an evaluation of""less reactive""cell chemistries (e.g. Iron Phosphate) that reduce the vigor of a cell event and thus reduce the risk of cell fratricide."
Novel Methods to Improve Performance of Silver-Zinc Batteries,N65538-10-C-0027,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2010,1,79873.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,"President, Chief Operatin",8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Roberto Serenyi,Electrochemist,8605991100,rserenyi@yardney.com,"This SBIR Program is aimed at developing improved large format, high energy silver zinc cells and batteries that can exceed 1 Mega-watt-hours per cycle for greater than 36 cycles and two years operation. It is aimed not only to seek innovative improvements to the cell components such as the silver oxide electrodes, zinc electrodes, separator and electrolyte but also to address system level components such as cell containment, and battery trays to improve thermal management of the battery and battery management electronics to improve cell balancing while mitigating potential for cell overcharge/over discharge. It will be achieved through the development and use of improved zinc electrodes, novel separator materials designed to either replace or facilitate the present cellulosic separators. The cell and battery containment components will be optimized to facilitate the battery thermal management characteristics to include conductive thermoplastics and encapsulating pyrolytic graphite that increases thermal conductivities significantly higher than the presently used fiberglass components. Battery Management electronics will also be evaluated to facilitate battery performance optimization and safety while applying similar methodologies and controls used on high voltage lithium ion battery systems."
Advanced Power/Energy System for Wet and Dry Submersibles,N65538-10-M-0030,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2010,1,69579.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,"President, Chief Operatin",8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Frank Puglia,Director R&D,8605991100,fjpuglia@lithion.com,"Yardney Technical Products proposes to evaluate several hybrid energy storage solutions for the SWCS and other manned submersibles. The first part of the Phase 1 effort will evaluate using Li-ion as the main energy storage with removable and replaceable higher energy density systems (e.g. primary cells) operating in parallel. To ensure the best options are considered, the proposed effort will advance the state of the art in submersible energy storage in two ways. First, the proposed effort will be the first to combine the state of the art in high energy silicon anodes with safer, phosphate based cathodes. Normally, iron phosphate cathodes are used in low energy, high power systems; the opposite of what is needed for SWCS. From these results and from existing YTP technology the capabilities of a Li-ion system will be reported both as a stand alone system and as part of a hybrid system. The second part of the Phase 1 effort will utilize experience from Submergence Group's S201 submersible, presently using a fuel cell, to evaluate design options in which a fuel cell is the primary energy storage device and a battery provides secondary power."
Improved Safety in Large Format Lithium-Ion Cells and Batteries,N65538-10-M-0086,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2010,1,69668.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,"President, Chief Operatin",8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Gregory Moore,Program Manager,8605991100,gmoore@lithion.com,"Yardney Technical Products (YTP) has put together a team of industry experts to address the safety of large format, high energy density Li-ion cells and batteries. YTP will utilize Exponent, Inc and their extensive experience in battery failure analysis and Celgard, Inc and their comprehensive electrode level thermal modeling capability. The effort begins with YTP building cells to evaluate a range of cathode materials (Spinels, Layered, and Olivines) in high energy cell chemistries for both available energy and reactivity in failure modes. YTP will also evaluate the practicality of hybrid separator systems in which the separator and/or electrodes are coated with a thin electrically insulating, temperature impervious layer. These layers would leave a residual electrical insulator in place in the result of separator failure from an over temperature condition. This creates a strong barrier to propagation resulting from an internal electrical short. Finally, YTP will model various novel cell geometries that are designed to interrupt the propagation front of a failure event. In summary, Phase I will identify the safest cathodes and anode systems that can meet the energy requirements, evaluate a novel separator system and model or empirically test the ability of novel cell geometries to terminate event propagation."
Development of Digital Receiver/Exciters for Missile Defense Radars,W9113M-09-C-0197,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2009,2,999999.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael A. Sherry,VP/GM,4012950062,msherry@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,wweedon@appliedradar.com,This proposal will address the development of a digital receiver and exciter (DREX) technology for next-generation scalable missile-defense radar. A DREX is currently being specified at the sub-array level to feed an analog tile or panel subarray. This al
Coherent Distributed Aperture Enabled Active Electronically Steered Array (CDA-AESA),W9113M-09-C-0030,DOD,MDA,STTR,2009,2,1000000.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael Sherry,Vice-President,4012950062,msherry@appliedradar.com,Michael Deaett,Principal Engineer,4012950062,miked@appliedradar.com,"Missile threats faced by our country are constantly increasing in lethality. The weapon used to counter such missiles is the kinetic interceptor. To work effectively, the reentry vehicle (RV) location must be precisely known. Confusing objects within the reentry complex make the key discrimination process very difficult. Coherent distributed aperture (CDA) radar represents an important advance in precision discrimination capability. To maintain performance, high angular resolution utilizing active electronically steered arrays (AESAs) subtending many wavelengths, is required. Such AESAs will operate at X-band. It is therefore important to develop newer and lower cost X-band components. During Phase I, we investigated technologies essential to making cost effective, low-power-density, large aperture AESAs work. We identified the digital receiver-exciter (DREX) as a critical AESA element that remains to be developed. The DREX must support high bandwidth CDA orthogonal waveforms. For interoperability, the interfaces to the DREX must incorporate a radar open system architecture (ROSA) interface and respond to radar control and data acquisition commands with minimal latency. The research that we propose will result in a functioning DREX prototype that meets these requirements. As a result, a range of CDA advanced performance verification experiments will be enabled."
Advanced Multi-Layer Phased-Array Interconnect Technology,W9113M-09-C-0072,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2009,2,999999.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael A. Sherry,Vice-President,4012950062,msherry@appliedradar.com,Steve Cheung,Principal Engineer,4012950062,scheung@appliedradar.com,"The design and development of scalable panel-based phased-array radars requires the high density integration of solid-state components and adequate thermal mitigation within the array lattice constraints. The current integration technologies such as system-on-a-chip (SOC), multi-chip-module-deposition (MCM-D), and system-on-package (SOP), will help miniaturizing sub-modules for various functional layers of the system, but they are not the only solutions. For large phased-array with scalable capability, they need a high density interconnect (HDI) platform to provide functional integration for board-to-board transitions and on-board interfaces with large input/output counts within a limited area constrained by the array lattice and efficiency of networking. The HDI platform is need to combine with advanced multi-layer board technology in order to integrate active devices, provide the required RF manifold, DC power and digital control to the array, while providing adequate heat sinking for the phased-array. In Phase II, a prototype sub-module will be developed utilizing the developed HDI platform which integrates active array components into a demonstration sub-array. The developed HDI platform will be made to provide a compatible board-to-board interface and efficient network for the SOC, MCM-D and SOP technologies. The target frequency range is X-band, but the developed technology could be extended to other frequency ranges."
Wideband Sub-Array Digital Receiver Exciter (DREX) Development and Packaging,W9113M-09-C-0061,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2009,1,99998.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael A. Sherry,Vice-President,4012950062,msherry@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,wweedon@appliedradar.com,"This proposal will address the development of a wideband digital receiver and exciter (DREX) technology for next-generation scalable missile-defense radar. A DREX is currently being specified at the sub-array level to feed an analog tile or panel subarray in order to generate flexible waveforms and beams with improved performance. The technical challenge is to meet the required receiver sensitivity, dynamic range, spurious response, bandwidth, waveform parameters, etc. at an acceptable cost in this new distributed architecture. Applied Radar, Inc. is currently developing a VME-based DREX architecture that will support multiple (~10-50) channel panel-based BMD radar demonstrations. In Phase I, we will investigate and quantify the performance and cost of the current DREX architecture, and determine what modifications are needed to integrate the hardware into a large scalable array that is suitable for the battlefield. We will also investigate emerging technologies including receiver-on-a-chip (ROC) and waveform generation methods for possible integration into the DREX architecture. In Phase II, these changes will be implemented into the DREX hardware, and the DREX will be integrated with existing analog tile and panel arrays. We will work with BMD prime contractors to determine insertion opportunities for this DREX technology in various radar applications."
Adaptive Distributed Aperture Radar Mainlobe Jammer Suppression,W9113M-09-C-0196,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2009,2,1000000.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael A. Sherry,Vice-President,4012950062,msherry@appliedradar.com,Michael A. Deaett,Principal Engineer,4012950062,miked@appliedradar.com,"Current monostatic radar systems suffer fine tracking and discrimination performance degradation when encountering mainlobe jammers deployed within a reentry complex. As a result our forces may be vulnerable to attack. During Phase I, we have developed di"
User Toolkit for Reducing Cost and Time in the Design of SONAR Systems Using Relaxor Piezoelectric Single Crystals,N00014-09-C-0490,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2009,2,496536.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David Brown,President,(401) 261-9318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,David Brown,President,(401) 261-9318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,"BTech Acoustics proposes the development of a detailed Cylindrical Transducers User Toolkit for the design of underwater acoustic transducers and sonar systems employing cylindrical transducers and relaxor piezoelectric single crystals. The Cylindrical Transducer User Toolkit (CT-Toolkit) will allow a detailed, accurate and user-friendly method to provide the acoustic performance for cylindrical transducers. The toolkit enables the exploration of the design space and associated tradeoffs afforded by new transducer and materials developments."
Ocean Energy Extraction for Sensor Applications,N00014-09-C-0671,DOD,NAVY,STTR,2009,2,749958.00,Electro Standards Laboratories,36 western Industrial Drive,,Cranston,RI,02921-,No,No,No,Raymond S. Junior,Research Scientist,(401) 943-1164,rsepe@electrostandards.com,Steven Bastien,,(401) 943-1164,StevenB@lab.electrostandards.com,"""Ocean Energy Extraction for Sensor Applications""has applications on buoy systems to be used by the United States Navy to increase situational awareness and battle-group integration by enabling power independent data acquisition and distributed sensor networks. Electro Standards Laboratories proposes to meet the requirements with mechanical wave energy extraction accomplished using integrated electrical generators. This work develops, demonstrates, and tests, direct-drive wave-energy conversion concepts. Detailed system models and prototypes are developed to predict, verify, and optimize performance. Form factor constraints are considered and the system is optimized for different deployment strategies. This approach is designed to achieve the goal of inexpensive, compact, efficient and reliable wave energy harvesting."
Alternative Aggregate Combat Modeling Algorithms,W31P4Q-09-C-0557,DOD,DARPA,STTR,2009,2,853475.00,"Gnosys, Inc.",198 Broadway,,Providence,RI,02903,No,No,Yes,James Panagos,"President, Gnosys",(401) 632-0280,jpanagos@gnosyssystems.com,Mikel Petty,"Director,CSMA",(256) 824-4368,pettym@uah.edu,"Gnosys, the University of Alabama in Huntsville, and SAIC propose that entity level performance data be""rolled-up""into aggregate performance data and used to resolve unit level combat at the unit level. Such an approach for conducting aggregate simulation would realize the advantage of employing validated entity level data but also keep the advantages inherent in aggregate simulation of computational efficiency and faster-than-real-time resolution. Moreover, the technology would eliminate correlation issues between aggregate and entity-level simulations. In Phase I, this approach was explored in the design of a new set of alternative aggregate-level algorithms. These essentially""rolled up""entity level data into unit-level effects without the need for an entity-by-entity time-stepped simulation. For Phase II, we propose to further research the extent, depth and validity of these algorithms by implementing them in actual simulation environments such as the OneSAF entity simulation and the WARSIM aggregate simulation. In Phase II, we hope to show that these algorithms are able not only""roll-up""entity data that pertains to traditional battlefield kinetic effects but also are able to""roll-up""Political Military Economic Social Infrastructure and Information (PMESII) data that influence non-kinetic battlefield effects."
"High Power, High Repetition Rate, Pulsed, Blue Laser for ASW Purposes",N68335-09-C-0415,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2009,2,600200.00,"HOPE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.",185 East Main Rd.,,Little Compton,RI,02837,Yes,No,No,Katherine Cipolla,Business Manager,6175246505,katharinecipolla@netscape.net,Roman Shubochkin,Senior Scientist,6173539932,rlshub@bu.edu,"A yb laser at 976 nm is a three level system. By placing Sm in the core (to reduce stimulated emission above 1,000 nm) and Yb in a surrounding ring, a more efficient laser at 976 nm can be obtained. This will be Q-switched to serve as the first stage of a pulse source in a MOPA configuration. The second stage will be a HOM fiber designed to amplify the pulses from the first stage. With a HOM fiber design, it will be possible to obtain pules in the 20 mJ range at a repitition rate of 1 kHz with nanosecond pulses. This output will be frequency doubled with a nonlinear crysta."
Imaging Instrumentation System,N68936-09-C-0018,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2009,1,97372.00,"DBV TECHNOLOGY, LLC",161 Woodmist Way,,North Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Harold Vincent,Owner & President,4012944607,bud@dbvtechnology.com,Harold Vincent,Owner & President,4012944607,bud@dbvtechnology.com,"DBV Technology, LLC proposes to develop an acoustic instrumentation system for the Test & Evaluation of Trident D-5 munitions to support the geo-location of near simultaneous impacts on the sea surface of up to 500 projectiles within a 500 meter radius area to an accuracy less than 1 meter CEP referenced to WGS-84. The proposed system will leverage over ten years of DBV Technology experience in basic and applied research of the acoustic signatures produced by high velocity solid objects impacting gas-liquid interfaces such as the sea surface. It is shown that by applying the first principle physics governing the acoustic signatures of impact events in conjunction with advanced signal processing techniques, state of the art electronics, storage, and acoustic sensor technologies; individual impact events can be resolved (i.e. detected and scored) to within 8 cm spatially or 50 micro-seconds temporally. In addition to the research of splash acoustics, DBV Technology has over ten years experience with design, development, installation and operation of ocean acoustic systems for splash detection and scoring to sub-meter accuracy in support of test and training at the Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center (AUTEC), Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) Naval Gunfire Scoring System (NGSS), Kwajalein Missile Impact Scoring System (KMISS), Soft Impact Location Capability (SILC), and Integrated Maritime Portable Acoustic Scoring and Simulator (IMPASS) System."
Application Additions to the Long Range Ball Bar for Multi-axis Machine Capability Analysis,W9113M-09-C-0040,DOD,DLA,SBIR,2009,1,99547.00,"IQL Independent Quality Labs, Inc.",PO Box 444,,Ashaway,RI,02804,No,No,No,Robert Callaghan,President/Chief Engineer,4015398510,bcallaghan@iqlinc.com,Robert Callaghan,President/Chief Engineer,4015398510,bcallaghan@iqlinc.com,"Testing of machine tools has been evolving for nearly 100 years. The advent of low cost computer data analysis, control and communication has allowed the design, manufacture and inspection of complex contoured surfaces. The need to ever decrease the tolerances has led to the development of machine tools which can no longer be tested with these old methods. These machines must be evaluated within their whole work volume, not just along single axes. A further development has been the rapidly growing use of e-commerce. New terms such as ""NCM"" (Network Centric Manufacturing) and ""PLM"" (Product Lifecycle Management) have been coined to describe the methods being used to produce products using the ""Global Economy"". Current practice limits the assessment of vendor machine performance and capability until after the first delivery of new product. These facts have produced a need to develop lower cost equipment and methods to rapidly assess the capability of new and old machine tools within their work volume. Independent Quality Labs, Inc. (IQL) has developed and built a Long Range Ball Bar capable of capturing machine position data within the work volume.These mechanical developments need to be accompanied by software Application Additions to keep pace with these advancements."
"Development of an In Situ Thermal Extraction Detection System (TEDS) for Rapid, Acccurate, Quantitative analysis of Environmental Pollutants in the Subsurface",EP-D-09-025,EPA,EPA,SBIR,2009,1,69989.00,"Ion Signature Technologoy, Inc.",51 Industrial Dr.,,North Smithfield,RI,02896,No,No,No,John Moore,President & CEO,4017674360,jmore@ionsigtech.com,John Moore,President & CEO,4017674360,jmore@ionsigtech.com,"Ion Signature Technology, Inc. (IST) will develop and market a collection and analysis system that will retrieve soil-bound pollutants as well as soluble and non soluble contaminants from groundwater as the probe is pushed by cone penetrometry of Geoprobe into the subsurface. Our goal is to detect in real-time the wide range of compounds listed in EPA method 8260 (VOCs) and 82790 (SVOCs) methods. On one end of a heated transfer line is a variably heated collection port that desorbs/extracts organics and brings them to the surface. On the othter end or the heated transfer line is a valve that funnels sample to photoionization (BTEX, PAH) and electron capture (chlorinated solvents, PCBs, pesticides) detectors or to a gas chromatography/ mass spectrometry detector (GS/MS) to provide quantitative data. When the system is commercialized, it will ¿sniff¿ for the presence of pollutants as the probe is advanced into the subsurface at the rate of 2 cm/sec. Once detected, the valve switches to the GC/MS, positive ID is made, and the amount in the sample at known depth recorded. When real-time and speciated chemical measurements are combined with geological and hydrogeological site data, conceptual models emerge that depict the location and rate of movement of pollution. Moreover, the thermal extraction and detection system (called TEDs) fits squarely into EPAs mission and importantly, EPAs TRIAD process because TEDs will deliver data on-site and in real-time. The goal is to provide data to better manage site investigations and cleanup. TPS has shown when project employ the TRIAD process, which encompasses systematic planning, dynamic work strategies, and real-time measurement systems, remediation costs go down."
"Marine Assessment, Decision, and Planning Tool for Protected Species (MADPT PS)",N00024-09-C-4157,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2009,2,149948.00,"MARINE ACOUSTICS, INC.",809 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,Kenneth Graf,Contracts Manager,4018477508,ken.graf@marineacoustics.com,William Ellison,Principal Scientist,4018477508,WEMAI@aol.com,"The ultimate objective of this SBIR project is the development of a software-based tool that provides environmental planners, synthetic trainers, and scientific researchers with access to scientific data on marine species. Ready access to pertinent information about a marine species, such as distribution, density, and behavior, is vital for making informed science-based decisions concerning the marine environment. Yet, there is currently no central, comprehensive database that integrates such knowledge on marine species. In Phase I of the Marine Assessment, Decision and Planning Tool (MADPT) for Protected Species project, MAI researched the development of such a central data repository. MAI concluded that development of MADPT was feasible and a conceptual structure for the MADPT database structure, population and user access was developed. MAI proposes in Phase II of MADPT, to develop a prototype database tool that focuses on limited taxa of marine species and geographic area. To accomplish this goal, MAI will identify viable selected external databases for population of the MADPT prototype. In this initial development stage, the MADPT prototype will be highly adaptable and designed to accommodate future input including updated biological data and analysis tools needed for both environmental assessment and bioclutter applications."
High Content Screening for Muscular Dystrophy,2R44NS059098-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2009,2,991988.00,"MYOMICS, INC.","MYOMICS, INC.",148 West River Street,PROVIDENCE,RI,02904 2615,No,No,No,Adele J. Vandenburgh,,,avandenburgh@myomics.com,Herman H. Vandenburgh,,4013318500,HERMAN_VANDENBURGH@BROWN.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Duchenne Muscular Dystrophic (DMD) is a fatal genetic disease affecting tens of thousands of boys in the U.S. There is currently no cure for the disease and few drugs are available to slow the progressive loss in skele
tal muscle strength. Glucocorticoids such as prednisone are one of the few classes of drugs in clinical use in DMD to slow the loss of muscle function, but have serious adverse side effects when used chronically. There is thus a great need to identify new
compounds that can improve the longevity and quality of life of the boys with this devastating disease. Myomics has developed a phenotypic high content drug screening technology termed MyoForce Analysis System (MFASTM). It is comprised of tissue engineered
skeletal muscle (Miniature BioArtificial Muscles or mBAMs) attached to micro-mechanical sensors in ninety-six microwell plates to quantitatively measure muscle contractile forces. These three-dimensional contractile tissues are composed of organized stria
ted skeletal muscle fibers that generate directed force when electrically stimulated. Myomics' mBAM tissue/sensor composite is capable of repetitive nondestructive force measurements over days to weeks. Such long-term studies can determine cumulative effec
ts of drugs on tissues and provides physiological data regarding tissue function. The physiological measurement of force generation by mBAMs is not limited to any particular known biochemical pathway, but rather the measurement of force is the result of bo
th positive and negative drug effects. Thus, MFASTM will not only screen compounds for positive muscle strength effects through known as well as unknown pathways, but will more rapidly eliminate target compounds with potentially adverse side effects. In My
omics' Phase I SBIR project mBAMs were tissue engineered from conditionally immortalized myoblasts from the mdx mouse, the small animal model of DMD. These dystrophin negative mBAMs generated measureable tetanic forces that increased significantly when inc
ubated with nine compounds that improve muscle strength in vivo. MFASTM was thus validated as a screen for new drugs to treat muscle weakness in DMD and will serve as an important bridge between target-based high throughput drug screening and follow-on in
vivo animal studies; it provides a rapid and cost effective screen compared to in vivo testing. The purpose of this Phase II project is to (1) Screen commercially available banks of clinically tested small molecules (600-1200) for increased skeletal muscle
strength; and (2) Determine whether compounds identified in (1) synergistically improve the benefits of glucocorticoid treatment. This SBIR Phase II project falls within several aspects of the NIH ROADMAP FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH including the use of innovati
ve phenotypic drug screening instrumentation to better understand the metabolic components and networks within tissues, creating new models to help predict the body's response to disease treatment. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Duchene muscular dystrophy (DMD)
is a genetically inherited fatal skeletal muscle disease with few treatments currently available for slowing the loss of muscle strength. Myomics' high content drug screening technology is aimed at identifying new drug candidates to attenuate skeletal musc
le loss and thereby increase muscle strength. While not a cure for the disease, these new drug therapies are aimed at enhancing quality and longevity of life of the DMD patient."
"Promoting Responsible Drinking: An Internet-based, Interactive Expert System Inte",1R43AA017333-01A2,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2009,1,168989.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice Prochaska,,,jpadula@prochange.com,Leanne Mauriello,,,,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Adults who exceed national guidelines for alcohol use and drink excessively impose serious and costly consequences for themselves and society at large. Alcohol use and abuse costs society over 100 billion dollars per y
ear in healthcare expenditures, lost productivity and earnings, premature death, alcohol-related crime, and other impacts on society. There is a need for population-based approaches to impacting the broader range of problem drinking. Cost-effective, scienc
e-based and easily deliverable interventions that reduce excessive drinking can be effective solutions reduce problems associated with heavy drinking. The ultimate goal of this research is to develop an innovative, science-based, and cost-effective interve
ntion based on the TransTheoretical Model to reach high-risk drinking adults who are not alcohol dependent. The proposed formative research will include focus groups, cognitive interviews, and usability interviews with excessive drinkers, as well as consul
tation and guidance from a panel of expert consultants. Upon completion of a prototype baseline intervention and interactive workbook, a pilot test with excessive drinkers from three worksites will be conducted to determine the acceptability, feasibility,
and resulting changes on proximal measures of behavior change. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Alcohol use and abuse costs society over 100 billion dollars per year in healthcare expenditures, lost productivity and earnings, premature death, alcohol-related crim
e, and other impacts on society. This research proposes to develop the first web- based, fully tailored, TTM-based program for reducing excessive alcohol use among adults. The proposed intervention offers an innovative, science-based, and cost- effective s
olution for reducing excessive drinking and related problems in an adult population."
A Multiple Health Behavior Change Internet Program for College Students,2R44HL074485-02A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2009,2,943826.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice M. Prochaska,,,jpadula@prochange.com,Sara S. Johnson,,4018745612,SJOHNSON@PROCHANGE.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Despite the importance of shaping a solid foundation of health behaviors early in life, college students have been understudied as a population for health promotion programs. This proposal represents innovative research
for impacting the promotion of healthy lifestyles among college students. The objective is to develop and test a population-based, multiple health behavior change program for college students, liveWell: A Healthy Foundation for Life. The multiple behavior
multimedia program will offer Transtheoretical Model- based computer tailored feedback on regular exercise, fruit and vegetable consumption, and effective stress management, as well as providing access to a stage-matched dynamic web portal. Varying levels
of tailoring will be employed across behaviors to examine the effects that co-variation has in multiple behavior change interventions. The success of the Phase I research demonstrates that the content and platform of the pilot program is both acceptable t
o college students and feasible to disseminate in college curricula. The primary goals of the Phase II proposal are to complete the development of the multiple behavior computer tailored intervention and web portal and to assess the effectiveness in a rand
omized trial including 1680 students from 2 large universities. Students will be recruited via freshman orientation classes and will complete follow-up assessments at 6-and 12-months. Effectiveness will be assessed by comparing improvements in continuous o
utcome measures and movement to public health criteria for each behavior. This intervention offers a cost-effective, science-based, and easily deliverable solution to improve multiple health behaviors, and overall health and well-being, of college students
. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors at an early age, before the onset of chronic disease, is of great public health importance. This research proposes to develop and test a population-based, multiple health behavior change prog
ram for college students that promotes the adoption and maintenance of regular exercise, fruit and vegetable consumption, and effective stress management. This Internet-based intervention offers a cost-effective, science-based and easily deliverable soluti
on to improve the health behaviors, and overall health and well-being, of college students."
Computerized Stage-Matched Intervention for Juvenile Offenders,1R43DA024900-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2009,1,172781.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice M. Prochaska,,,jpadula@prochange.com,Deborah A. Levesque,,4018744106,DLEVESQUE@PROCHANGE.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Juvenile crime imposes enormous costs on victims, on society, and on juvenile offenders themselves. However, research assessing the efficacy of interventions for young offenders show, on average, only small effects on r
ecidivism, substance abuse, and other behavioral outcomes. A major problem with existing interventions is that they tend to neglect individual differences in motivation and readiness to make positive changes. We propose to use an empirically validated mode
l of behavior change, the Transtheoretical Model (TTM), and expert system technology to develop a computerized intervention designed as an adjunct to traditional juvenile justice programs. The intervention will deliver assessments and individualized feedba
ck matched to readiness to stay out of trouble with the law and reduce substance use. It will also generate counselor reports that summarize the youth's feedback and present concrete, easy-to-implement strategies counselors can use to reinforce stage-match
ed concepts. The goals of this Phase I project are to develop and validate TTM measures for reducing marijuana and alcohol use among juvenile offenders (to supplement measures already developed for staying out of trouble with the law); to develop the basel
ine portion of a computer-administered, interactive, multimedia expert system program; and to test the feasibility of this approach to intervention. Juvenile offenders will participate in focus groups to generate ideas for the TTM measures (n=32) and to pr
ovide feedback on the intervention materials (n=32); cognitive interviews to ensure TTM instructions and questions are interpreted as intended (n=8); usability tests to ensure that the expert system intervention is easily navigable and provides a coherent
intervention experience (n=8); and an anonymous survey for measure development and validation (n=200). Finally, 60 court- and system-involved youth will participate in a feasibility trial and receive the intervention; their counselors will receive the coun
selor reports. The feasibility of this approach will be established if: 1) we are able to deliver the intervention as planned to at least 90 percent of trial participants in a range of juvenile justice programs and settings; 2) participants provide positiv
e ratings of the acceptability and usefulness of the interactive session; 3) counselors provide positive ratings of the helpfulness of the counselor reports; and 4) the intervention yields statistically significant pre-post changes on proximal measures of
change-namely, youths' assessments of the benefits of staying out of trouble with the law, and the benefits of reducing substance use. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: Juvenile crime imposes enormous costs on victims, on society, and on juvenile offenders themselv
es. We propose to use an empirically validated model of behavior change, the Transtheoretical Model (TTM), and expert system technology to develop a computerized intervention designed as an adjunct to traditional juvenile justice programs. The intervention
, which delivers assessments, individualized feedback, and counselor reports matched to youths' readiness to stay out of trouble with the law and reduce substance use, has the potential to increase programs' responsivity to youths' needs; make more efficie
nt use of scarce program resources; and improve outcomes."
Computerized Adaptive Assessment of Disease Impact,2R44AG025589-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2009,2,2966081.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,James Dewey,,,kivey@qualitymetric.com,John E. Ware,,5083631236,JOHNWARERESEARCHGROUP@GMAIL.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This SBIR Phase II project will develop and evaluate a more practical and comprehensive approach to standardizing the self-assessment of disease-specific Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) in the growing population
of aging (45+ years) adults with, and at-risk of, co-morbid chronic conditions. Specifically, we propose to simplify disease impact screening (for prevention and early warning), and monitoring of HRQOL outcomes by adapting a consumer-focused Smart Measurem
ent system, developed using item response theory (IRT) to improve outcomes measures, utilizing computerized adaptive testing (CAT) software to improve data capture and score estimation, and deliver content via the Internet. Phase I demonstrated administra
tive feasibility and supported the assumptions underlying the standardization of the content of disease-specific impact items and their calibration across diseases to achieve measures that are more responsive to outcomes as well as meaningfully comparable
across diseases. Other complimentary SBIR projects focusing on single diseases have demonstrated the potential for more practical and precise assessments over a wide range of severity levels - and the possibility of eliminating ceiling and floor effect
s. In Phase II we will combine these efforts and expand our tests of standardized disease-specific and generic measurement models among larger samples of aging adults with multiple co-morbid conditions by administering items from new standardized disease s
pecific item banks as well as previously-validated disease-specific and generic HRQOL measures to address the following aims: (1) Improve the instrument and item pools using (a) qualitative methods and expert/consumer evaluation, (b) quantitative studies a
mong large samples of the most prevalent and burdensome chronic conditions (e.g., asthma, CHF, CKD, depression, diabetes, headache, obesity, osteoarthritis), and (c) head-to-head comparisons between more efficient static and dynamic short forms versus leg
acy (previously-validated) tools; (2) Develop and evaluate aggregated disease-specific and generic feedback report(s), suitable for consumers (who are and are not currently patients ) and their clinicians, with user-friendly normative/benchmark interpret
ive information; (3) Evaluate the self-assessment system in a longitudinal prospective panel study to replicate tests of psychometric properties, test predictive validity (medical expenditures, role/social participation, mortality) and responsiveness, and
address data quality, context and mode effects, accessibility of the Internet, and effects of respondent characteristics; (4) Gather norms by administering generic and disease specific measures to representative US population samples with and without chron
ic conditions. The Phase II product will be a fully operational self-assessment system for screening and monitoring disease impact for the aging population with multiple co-morbid conditions, including: improved static and dynamic (CAT) short forms for a
ssessing disease impact and generic health outcomes, user-friendly feedback reports and documentation. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: The Disease Impact Assessment Tool will measure the impact of multiple co-morbidities across the spectrum of physical functionin
g and mental well-being. It will simplify disease burden screening and provide more actionable information for use in early warning and health care stratification, and enable more practical monitoring of health outcomes for use by providers, payors, govern
ments, researchers and most importantly, consumers that encourage self-management and patient-centered care delivery."
"Compact, Lightweight Chemical Sensor for Underwater Explosive Ordnance (EOD) Application",N00024-09-M-0064,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2009,1,69938.00,"SUBCHEM SYSTEMS, INC.",65 Pier Road,,Narragansett,RI,02882,No,No,No,Alfred Hanson,Systems Engineer,4017834744,hanson@subchem.com,Scott Veitch,Systems Engineer,4017834744,veitchsp@subchem.com,"SubChem Systems Inc. has been involved in the further development, deployment and commercialization of autonomous in-situ chemical analyzers and custom engineered payloads since 1996. SubChem Analyzers have been deployed on commercial AUVs, coastal gliders, autonomous moored vertical profilers, fixed moored structures and other ocean observation platforms. The overall objective of this funding will be to provide a conceptual design of a Diver held chemical sensor capable of sensing chemical/explosive signatures focusing on nitro-based explosives. The requirements needed of the sensor for integration to the DHINS, HULS and BULS systems will also be documented. SubChem Systems maintains the expertise to provide an assessment of several chemical sensing techniques which may be applicable to the sensing of explosives underwater to be applied to the conceptual design. SubChem is currently developing a Miniature Chemical Sensor, ChemFIN, for the detection of trace levels of explosives and other target chemicals. This sensor couples a unique micro-fluidic technology providing a low cost, low power, and platform independent architecture. Funding from this Phase 1 effort will produce a conceptual adaptation to a Diver Held ChemFIN. This variant will incorporate an applicable sensing technology for localization and classification of nitrate-based (TNT,DNT) and potentially peroxide-based (TATP,HMTD) chemical/explosive mixtures."
Advanced Lithium Ion Batteries for Space-based Applications,FA9453-09-M-0105,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2009,1,99019.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,"Vincent A. Yevoli, Jr.",CEO,8605991100,SBIR_ADMIN@21technologies.com,Joseph Gnanaraj,Lead Scientist,8605991100,lhitt@21technologies.com,"The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of developing advanced battery chemistries that provide batteries that operate safely at increased power density via improved discharge rate, higher energy density through improved battery internal components/chemistry/cathode and anode material, increased cycle life and depth-of-discharge, exceptional durability when exposed to extremes in temperature and space environmental effects and an increase or total elimination of the calendar-life limitations of lithium ion batteries. During the phase I of this program, Yardney will manufacture surface modified cathode materials and apply novel coating technology. The cells made from theses electrodes will be safe, long life and better electrochemical characteristics for space based batteries. BENEFIT: Air Force Application: The target application for this surface modified cathode based Li ion battery is in Air Force applications where safety, longer cycle life, high energy density and power densities are required. This new technology will have superior performance even at low temperatures due to robust electrode coating method and surface modification of the electrode materials. Non Military Application: High power applications include power tools, electric vehicles and telecommunications. Automotive and industrial sectors, where the slim, small-sized battery will deliver large amounts of energy while requiring only a minute to recharge. For example, the battery''''''''s advantages in size, weight and safety highly suit it for a role as an alternative power source for hybrid electric vehicles."
Advanced Materials and Chemistries for Electrochemical Energy Storage Devices,FA8650-10-C-2042,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2009,2,749999.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,"Vincent A. Yevoli, Jr.",President and Chief Opera,(860) 599-1100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joseph Gnanaraj,Sr. Research Scientist,(860) 599-1100,joeg@lithion.com,"The objective of this proposal is to develop advanced battery chemistries that allow batteries to operate safely at specific energies higher than 100 Wh/kg & energy densities over 600 Wh/l, or at power levels above 5kW/kg. The phosphate based LiMPO4 (M = Fe, Mn, Ni, and Co), cathodes are found to be attractive because of the stable nature of the olivine-type structure. Having a PO43 & #8722; polyanion with a strong PO covalent bond provides not only excellent cycle-life but also a safe system that is resistant to overcharge, thermal degradation and oxygen evolution. This stability reduces the risk of failure propagation in the high energy and high power batteries of interest to the AirForce. The robust covalent bonding of PO43 & #8722;, however, reduces the compounds""conductivities, and olivines require additional treatment with conductive aids to perform at useful rates. Yardney Technical Products proposes to develop a high voltage (>4.8V) olivine-type phosphate cathode and a suitable electrolyte system for high energy Li-ion batteries."
Phase I Advanced Battery Materials for Rechargeable Advanced Space-Rated Li-Ion Batteries,NNX09CE21P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2009,1,99019.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,"Vincent A. Yevoli, Jr.",President/COO,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joseph Gnanaraj,Principal Investigator,8605991100,joeg@lithion.com,"Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are attractive candidates for use as power sources in aerospace applications because they have high specific energy (up to 200 Wh/kg), energy density (~ 500 Wh/L) and long cycle life (1,000 Ã½Ã½ 30,000 cycles depending on the depth of cycling). Yardney/Lithion, Inc. the leader in cutting edge Li-ion batteries is dedicated in research, development, design and manufacturer of high performing battery systems for aerospace, land and sea applications. At the present moment, two of the Lithion batteries are operating on the surface of Mars with great success. Future robotic and human exploration missions require advanced human-rated energy rechargeable batteries level metrics should have specific energy of 300 Wh/kg at C/2 discharge rate and 0oC, and energy density greater than 500 Wh/l, with a calendar life of 5 years. The cycle life of the cell is required at 100% Depth of Discharge (DOD) in the range of 250 cycles. Yardney proposes to develop environmentally benign new electrode components and cell chemistries based on high capacity of 300mAh/g layered Li2MnO3 derivative cathode, composite silicon based anode with a capacity of over 600 mAh/g and suitable electrolyte."
"Rapid Recharge, High Voltage Li-Ion Battery Chemistry",W911QX-09-C-0098,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2009,2,728758.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,"Vincent A. Yevoli, Jr.",President/COO,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Boris Ravdel,Research Scientist,8605991100,bravdel@lithion.com,"The goal of the project is to develop a high-energy material for positive electrode of lithium-ion cell, and to build and test High Voltage, High Energy lithium-ion cell based on the material. In Phase I of the project, we synthesized the material, identified it as a lithium nickel-manganese spinel with Mn/Ni atomic ratio equal to 3, and proved that it can be used in high-voltage (above 4.5 V at room temperature) or safe (not prone to thermal runaway being overcharged) lithium-ion cells. The former ones employ carbonaceous negative electrode while the latter ones supposed to be coupled with safe lithium titanate spinel negative electrode. Different materials for negative electrode from various commercial sources will be acquired and evaluated. The objective of Phase II of the project is to improve and scale-up the method of the cathode material synthesis as well as on the positive and negative electrode fabrication process, and manufacture three 7Ah cells of each type. The cells will be tested at temperature interval from -20 to 50oC at rates up to 2C."
High Energy Density Storage for Solar Power Generation Systems,FA8650-09-C-5902,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2009,2,748055.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,"President, Chief Operatin",8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arthur Dobley,Senior Research Scientist,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase II project will advance an efficient and lightweight energy storage device for Solar Power Generation Systems by developing a high energy density lithium-air battery with the recharge capability developed in the Phase I. Specifically, the project advances high energy density cells by focusing on increasing the energy density of these cells. Our high-energy air cathodes, with an increased oxygen diffusion rate, are incorporated into the cells. Several areas to optimize the cells have been identified and will be investigated. These cells produce power by the lithium reacting with the air cathode. This significantly decreases the weight by consuming oxygen from the air. Yardneys experience and technologies in oxygen cathodes and powers sources will be adopted in the design of the lithium-air batteries. Advantages of the proposed lithium-air battery include: a safe design, high energy density, a lightweight design, and a high energy density cathode. BENEFIT: The proposed high energy density lithium- air battery has the potential to be used as a lithium-air battery or a lithium-oxygen battery (like a fuel cell). The lithium-air battery could provide energy storage for Solar Power Generation Systems, UAVs, small robots, and aerospace equipment. This technology may also be used to power vehicles on the land, air or sea, and even space. The lithium- air batteries are adaptable to powering electronics. Lithium-air batteries have the potential to replace fuel cells and batteries currently used to power electronic equipment. The strength of the system is its very high energy density. Its lightweight nature and flexible design provide adaptability to many commercial products such as cell phones and computers."
Reciprocal Lithium-ion Cell with Novel Lithium-Free Cathode and Pre-Lithiated Carbonaceous Anode,DE-FG02-09ER85551,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2009,1,99956.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,John Dufrat,Mr.,8605991100,jdufrat@lithion.com,Boris Ravdel,Dr.,8605991100,bravdel@lithion.com,"In almost all lithium-ion cells, which are needed for hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in HEVs (PHEVs), the Â¿activeÂ¿ lithium is introduced into an uncharged cell as part of the material used in the positive electrode. However, it has been proven that lithium-metal electrodes can not be cycled thousands of times, as required for HEVs and PHEVs. This project will explore the use of a new material, based on carbon-Stabilized Lithium Metal Powder (SLMPÂ¿), as a promising substitute for the lithium-metal anode. For the cathode material, manganese dioxide MnO2 looks very attractive for coupling with the SLMP anode, due to its low price and high theoretical specific capacity. However, in practice, MnO2 has poor cyclability. To improve cyclability, the manganese dioxide will be doped with nickel and the spinel structure will be stabilized by incorporating lithium in the mixed oxide. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: In addition to the application for electric vehicles, the improved energy storage device should find use in cellular phones, laptop computers, camcorders, and other commercial electronic equipment. The technology also should be applicable to providing power for implantable medical devices."
Adaptive Distributed Aperture Radar Mainlobe Jammer Suppression,W9113M-08-C-0062,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2008,1,99999.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael A. Sherry,Vice-President/GM,4012950062,msherry@appliedradar.com,Michael A. Deaett,Principal Engineer,4012950062,miked@appliedradar.com,"The mitigation of mainlobe jamming is essential to missile defense radar performance. Applied Radar is currently investigating distributed aperture and adaptive processing architectures that promise a new generation of advanced radar performance. Our proposed program will research the application of these distributed aperture radar techniques to determine the mainlobe jammer suppression possible with a range of distributed aperture geometries and radar waveform bandwidths. The integrated space-time processing of coherent multiple input, multiple output (MIMO) radar promises substantial mainlobe jammer suppression as well as the improved spatial resolution needed for midcourse discrimination of reentry vehicle targets in the presence of adversary ECM and clutter. It is important to realize that the processing burden of these new methods is substantial and, therefore, our investigations into advanced algorithm performance will include computational sizing estimates for several distributed aperture system architectures. The transition of the developed techniques into advanced array applications such as CG-X is facilitated by the use of an Open System Architecture framework that is being developed by our prime contractor partner. The application of this work to the SPEAR MDA radar system technology demonstrator is facilitated by currently existing teaming relationships with several technology companies."
Advanced Phased-Array Module Interconnect Technology,W9113M-08-C-0052,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2008,1,99999.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael A. Sherry,Vice-President/GM,4012950062,msherry@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"The design and development of phased-array radars requires the integration of solid-state components and adequate thermal mitigation within the array lattice constraints. The current trend is towards increasingly planar designs and a reduction in the array depth. The MDA SPEAR program is one example in which a planar T/R ""tile"" architecture is utilized. System-on-a-chip technologies such as SiGe will help miniaturize the modules, but is only part of the solution. Advanced multi-layer board technology is needed in order to integrate the active devices, provide the required RF manifold, DC power and digital control to the array, while providing adequate thermal conduction. In Phase I, Applied Radar will investigate novel board technologies such as HTCC and LTCC which enable next-generation phased-array architectures and reduce cost. In Phase II, a prototype module will be developed utilizing the developed board technology which integrates active array components into a demonstration array. The target frequency range is X-band, but the developed technology could be utilized for other frequency ranges."
ElectronicTextile Antennas,W31P4Q-08-C-0366,DOD,DOD,SBIR,2008,2,749826.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"Long-duration wide-area surveillance missions increasingly are space-based. MEO orbits offer space-based radar systems more time on station, but require very large array apertures on the order of 100m in diameter. Achieving larger apertures with smaller, lighter launch packages and stable on-orbit pointing is a challenge that E-Textiles promises to meet. Textile processes can be used to achieve a low-cost, lightweight array capable of being stowed in a launch vehicle and deployed in orbit. During Phase I, we demonstrated the feasibility of E-Textile antennas by constructing and testing an assortment of multilayer antenna and feed modules. Copper wire and stainless steel yarns were hand-embroidered onto codura, vinyl coated canvas and fiberglass and stitched together with foam and knit spacer fabrics to form textile-based microstrip patch antennas. Our Phase II work will build this E-textile technique using computer-controlled industrial embroidering machines to build up more sophisticated arrays with tolerances and repeatability afforded by a computer-automated textile process. We will also investigate alternative E-textile methods such as nonwovens and custom metallic knits for building space-based antennas. The design will culminate in the construction of a 1m x 1m subarray that can be used to form a 4m x 100m array in a tile-architecture."
Materials and Device Modeling to Reduce Cost and Time to Exploit Relaxor Piezoelectric Single Crystals in Navy SONAR Transducers,N00014-08-M-0106,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2008,1,70000.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David A. Brown,President,4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,David A. Brown,President,4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,We propose the evaluation and measurement of single crystal materials to support performance prediction of cylindrical ring sonar transducers and bar transducers for imaging sonar. The project also encompasses the construction and evaluation of exemplar devices.
User Toolkit for Reducing Cost and Time in the Design of SONAR Systems Using Relaxor Piezoelectric Single Crystals,N00014-08-M-0107,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2008,1,70000.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David A. Brown,President,4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,David A. Brown,President,4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,We propose the development of a detailed Cylindrical Transducers User Toolkit for the design of underwater acoustic transducers and sonar systems employing cylindrical transducers and relaxor piezoelectric single crystals. The User Toolkit will providing the systems designers with a simple way to project the acoustic performance for the class of cylindrical transducers and explore the design space afforded by new transducer and materials opportunities.
Miniaturization of Thermoacoustic Expander for 50 mW Recuperative Coolers Run Below 40 K,W9113M-08-C-0150,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2008,2,749287.00,"CRYOWAVE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY, INC.",58 Washington Street,,Pawtucket,RI,02860,No,No,No,Zhimin Hu,President,4017286488,zhimin.hu@cryowave.com,Zhimin Hu,Principle Investigator,4017286488,cryowave@gmail.com,"The objective of this project is to develop a novel expander that can increase the efficiency of cryocoolers for IR sensors at very low temperatures and in remote cooling and across gimbal applications. Miniature Thermoacoustic Expanders (MTAE) that employ high energy acoustic waves generated with no moving parts at the cold expander to produce efficient cooling over a wide range of temperatures and reject heat to much higher temperature level. Unlike JT expanders which are irreversible and limited by their working gas to narrow temperature ranges and typically high pressure ratios, MTAE's can provide effective cooling for a range of applications even including nanoelectronic components that require very low cooling power for which conventional mechanical turbo or piston expanders are inefficient. MTAE development in Phase II will further extend the technology envelope to smaller scale prototypes and the lower operating temperature range. Successful completion of Phase II will result in the fabrication, test, and delivery of a MTAE prototype unit which is designed for a recuperative cryocooler operating with >1W of cooling power below 77K."
Ocean Energy Extraction for Sensor Applications,N00014-08-M-0277,DOD,NAVY,STTR,2008,1,69909.00,Electro Standards Laboratories,36 western Industrial Drive,,Cranston,RI,02921-,No,No,No,Raymond Sepe Jr,Vice President R&D,4019431164,rsepe@electrostandards.com,Steven Bastien,Research Scientist,4019431164,StevenB@lab.electrostandards.com,"""Ocean Energy Extraction for Sensor Applications"" has applications on buoy systems to be used by the United States Navy to increase situational awareness and battle-group integration by enabling power independent data acquisition and distributed sensor networks. Electro Standards Laboratories proposes to meet the requirements with mechanical wave energy extraction accomplished using integrated electrical generators. This work develops, demonstrates, and tests, direct-drive wave-energy conversion concepts. A detailed system model is developed to predict scalability of the proposed system to higher power levels. Form factor constraints are considered and the system is optimized for different deployment strategies. This approach is designed to achieve the goal of inexpensive, compact, efficient and reliable wave energy harvesting."
T1D Tolerance Induction with Natural Treg Epitopes,1R43DK081261-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2008,1,599999.00,"EPIVAX, INC.",146 CLIFFORD STREET,,PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,,,,grants@epivax.com,Anne S. Degroot,,4012722123,ANNIED@EPIVAX.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Type 1 (juvenile) diabetes is an organ-specific autoimmune disease resulting from destruction of insulinproducing pancreatic beta-cells. In non-diabetics, islet cell antigen-specific T cells are either deleted in thymic
development or are converted to T regulatory cells that actively suppress effector responses to islet cell antigens. In juvenile diabetics and in the NOD mouse model of juvenile diabetes, these tolerance mechanisms are missing. In their absence, islet cel
l antigens are presented by human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I and II molecules and are recognized by CD8(+) and CD4(+) auto-reactive T cells. Destruction of islet cells by these auto-reactive cells eventually leads to glucose intolerance. Modulation of
auto-immune responses to autologous epitopes by induction of antigen-specific tolerance may prevent ongoing beta-cell destruction. EpiVax, Inc. has identified a set of natural T regulatory epitopes that induce tolerance to immunogenic proteins. Prelimi
nary studies demonstrate that these Tregitopes specifically induce natural Tregs and, when coadministered with an antigen, lead to expansion of antigen-specific regulatory T cells. Initial studies have demonstrated tolerance induction in the context of d
ust-mite allergy. The goal of this Phase I SBIR application is to evaluate whether immune response to islet cell antigens can be redirected by administration of Tregitopes in conjunction with T1D antigens, leading to antigen-specific adaptive tolerance in
duction (T1D ASATI) in a murine model of T1D. The outcome of T1D ASATI will be measured in terms of regulatory T cell responses to preproinsulin (PPI) T-cell epitopes in vivo and in vitro. In the context of this application we will: (1) Assess whether
Tregitopes suppress the PPI-specific response ex vivo using PBMC from recent-onset type 1 diabetics, (2) Measure Tregitope-induced modulation of T1D pathology and PPI-specific immune responses in NOD mice and (3) Elucidate the mechanism of Tregitopeinduced
PPI ASATI in DR4 transgenic mice. If successful, this research and development program will lead to a clinical approach that will generate or restore tolerance in juvenile diabetics. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: This research will investigate an immune treat
ment that may slow the progression of Type 1 (juvenile) diabetes."
Generalized Environmental Acoustic Model Structure for Bottom Backscatter,N66001-08-M-1049,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2008,1,70000.00,"MARINE ACOUSTICS, INC.",809 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,William White,Contracts Manager,4018477508,bill.white@marineacoustics.com,William Elliison,Chief Scientist,4018477508,wemai@aol.com,"Existing OAML-approved active acoustic models are under continuous evolution to take advantage of new theoretical and numerical developments and more powerful computational resources. These models are supported by OAML-approved environmental databases that are also constantly updated to accommodate the newly developed models and recent measurements throughout the world. The databases that describe the bottom include the Digital Bathymetric Data Base (DBDBV) multi-resolution bathymetric databases, the Low-Frequency Bottom Loss (LFBL) database, the Bottom Sediment Type (BST) database, and the Bottom Backscattering Strength (BBS) database. Recent physics based research on coupled scattering mechanisms and physics-based clutter as functions of the bottom's geoacoustic parameters and bathymetry have offered the opportunity for a wholly new approach to developing a prototype generalized bottom database. This approach is based on understanding and describing the underlying physical mechanisms of reverberation and clutter (including bistatic geometries), and provides the ability to harness and integrate the information from the existing databases and new measurement techniques into a generalized bottom database. This database would furnish physics-based and/or empirical bottom parameters to model undersea acoustic propagation, deterministic bottom reverberation and stochastic clutter for emulation of false alarms."
"Marine Assessment, Decision, and Planning Tool for Protected Species (MADPT PS)",N65538-08-M-0096,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2008,1,70000.00,"MARINE ACOUSTICS, INC.",809 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,William T. White,Contracts Manager,4018477508,bill.white@marineacoustics.com,William T. Ellison,Principal Scientist,4018477508,wemai@aol.com,"The overall objective of this SBIR proposal is the development of a software-based tool or database known as the Marine Assessment, Decision, and Planning Tool (MADPT) for Protected Species. Knowledge about federally protected species such as fishes, marine mammals, sea turtles, and invertebrates such as corals or abalone is vital for scheduling at-sea activities so that potential impacts to these species can be avoided or minimized. Ready access to pertinent information about a marine species, including its distribution, density, behavior, life history and bioacoustic parameters, environmental stressors, and key habitats is critical for environmental planners, environmental compliance specialists, scientific researchers, and others to make informed, science-based decisions about locating at-sea or marine activities and the potential impacts of those activities on protected species and habitats. This database tool will be designed to provide ready access to the needed scientific information and data on marine species, especially those protected by United States federal regulatory mandates. The first step, or Phase I, of this effort will entail demonstrating the feasibility of developing and generating such a comprehensive database by selecting one taxon of protected species, fishes, upon which to focus the development and later data-population efforts."
High Content Drug Screening with Cardiac Tissue,1R43HL093939-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2008,1,98136.00,"MYOMICS, INC.","MYOMICS, INC.",148 West River Street,PROVIDENCE,RI,02904 2615,No,No,No,,,,hvandenburgh@brown.edu,Herman H. Vandenburgh,,4013318500,HERMAN_VANDENBURGH@BROWN.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Myomics, Inc. has developed High Content Drug Screening (HCS) technology for in vitro testing of compounds which alter contractile forces generated by miniaturized tissue engineered organs (Myo-Force Assay SystemTM, MFA
STM). Myomics' 3-D tissue/force sensor composite is capable of long term studies (1-4 weeks) and provides force as well as electrophysiological activity data in response to a drug or multiple drugs in a nondestructive, repetitive fashion. Such long term st
udies can determine effects of drugs on tissues which may not be apparent in shorter term single biochemical High Throughput Screening (HTS) assays. Unlike cell-based HCS assays, MFASTM retains properties of the original contractile tissue, allowing for fo
llow-up histological and biochemical correlation to tissue contractile force. Since the physiological measurement of force is assayed, the effects of drugs on contractile properties are the sum result on multiple second messenger pathways (both positive an
d negative effects). The technology may thus be a better predictor of subsequent in vivo activities. In addition, since the screening method does not target any particular known second messenger pathway as in most HTS and HCS assays, new pathway targets ma
y be identified. Myomics has successfully tissue engineered skeletal muscle myoblasts into miniaturized bioartificial muscles (mBAMs) in a prototype 96 well format, reproducibly measured both isotonic (resting) and active (electrically- induced) contractil
e forces, and validated the assay with known anabolic and catabolic factors. This Phase 1 SBIR project will extend the MFASTM technology to neonatal rat cardiomyocyte mBAMs (cBAMs) for potential use in screening for compounds to treat heart diseases affect
ing heart force contraction or electrophysiological activity. Methods will be developed for the reproducible tissue engineering of cBAMS in a 96 well format and measurement of force generation with the MFASTM. Follow-up electrophysiological, biochemical, a
nd histological assays will be performed to determine the differentiation state of the tissue by measuring electrical coupling, contractile protein isoform content, cellular organization, cell number and size. Successful completion of this project will all
ow Myomics to utilize an automated 96 well plate MFASTM in a SBIR Phase II project to screen chemical compounds bank for potential treatment of heart disorders such as pathological cardiac hypertrophy or cardiac arrhythmias. Heart failure is a major public
health problem and number one cause of death in industrialized nations. About 550,000 new cases occur in each year in the United States, and heart failure is the underlying or contributing cause of ~285,000 deaths per year and the estimated direct and ind
irect costs (i.e., health care expenditures and loss of productivity, respectively) of heart failure in 2006 are estimated to be more than 25 billion. Few drugs are currently available to treat these disorders and Myomics' high throughput drug screening te
chnology will enable the identification of new drugs candidates to attenuate cardiac disorders."
Molecular Shape Detection for Chemical Analysis,W911NF-08-C-0100,DOD,ARMY,STTR,2008,2,750000.00,Ryon Technologies,200 Massasoit Ave.,,East Providence,RI,-,No,No,No,Peter M. Weber,President,4018633767,peter_weber@brown.edu,Joseph D. Geiser,Senior Research Scientist,4018639661,ryontech@mac.com,"Rydberg Fingerprint Spectroscopy has recently been discovered as a tool to identify molecular shapes. Ryon Technologies, Inc. was founded to bring this exciting new technology to markets as a shape sensitive detector that can be interfaced with existing mass spectrometry instrumentation. In Phase 1 the feasibility of such a detector was confirmed. During Phase 2, a prototype instrument will be contructed and tested. This prototype will be interfaced with a time-of-flight mass spectrometer, e.g. the Bruker-Daltonics micrOTOF. The Rydberg states will be generated by photoexcitation. The binding energies of these states will then be measured with a novel electron energy analyzer. Once the prototype is operational, a limited fingerprint library will be generated and the shape sensitivity will be demonstrated by comparing samples against this library."
Submarine ES System RF Groom & Certification,N00014-08-M-0267,DOD,NAVY,STTR,2008,1,69905.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,Tom Cranson,Contracts Manager,4018472260,tcranson@seacorp.com,Dave Patridge,Project Manager,4018322568,dpatridge@seacorp.com,"US Navy submarine forces currently employ an independent team who typically conduct in excess of 60 man-days to test, measure, calibrate and certify radio frequency (RF) signal paths. Ships personnel have no means of self-calibrating or performing an operational verification of their Electronic Surveillance suites once underway. The SEA CORP Team proposes to develop innovative technologies to provide an Organic Groom and Certification System (OGCS). The proposed conceptual design will be incorporated as an independent modulation module and RF source for the testing of the complete frequency spectrum of the submarines periscope. Testing objectives will include an approach for adapting calibration waveforms and modulation formats for Specific Emitter Identification (SEID) and Low Probability of Intercept (LPI), as well as accurate measurement of degradation in the RF path and front end components in the form of group delay, gain/loss measurements, and system attenuation. The Team will develop test methodology for calculating energy levels at sensor antennas and across the RF path, through development of correction tables that can be applied to the individual ES subsystems. The Option portion will analyze the ability to conduct a Radiated RF test between a Mission Configurable Mast and the Periscope system under test."
DGPS-Based Trilateration Positioning Receiver,DTRT57-08-C-10008,DOT,DOT,SBIR,2008,1,100000.00,Swaszek Peter,57 Brayton Street,,East Greenwich,RI,02818,No,No,No,Peter F. Swaszek,,(401) 884-5942,swaszek@ele.uri.edu,Peter F. Swaszek,,(401) 884-5942,swaszek@ele.uri.edu,"Positioning and navigation have become a mainstay of everyday life in the U.S.; applications of interest include navigation of vehicles of all kinds, infrastructure mapping, and safety of life systems. Many of these recent applications have become possible through the GPS. With the recognized vulnerabilities of GPS, it is evident that equivalent backup systems must be developed. One possible solution is in using so-called signals of opportunity as sources of range information. As an RF communications signal whose detailed time/frequency domain characteristics could be exploited by a signals of opportunity type positioning system, the DGPS service under development by the Federal Highway Administration has the potential to serve as a backup system in the event of loss of GPS. The goal of this project is a formal assessment of the capability of such a positioning system, the development of receiver algorithms, and an examination of the hardware needs for a commercial of the hardware needs for a commercial user receiver. For Phase I of the project, sample processing of DGPS signals will be implemented using an analog to digital converter and digital signal processor connected to a standard PC; Phase II would further explore special purpose hardware."
Advanced Materials and Chemistries for Electrochemical Energy Storage Devices,FA8650-08-M-2890,DOD,OSD,SBIR,2008,1,99641.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,"President, Chief Operating Officer",8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joseph Gnanaraj,Research Scientist,8605991100,joeg@lithion.com,"The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of developing advanced battery chemistries that provide batteries operate safely at specific energies higher than 100 Wh/kg, energy densities over 600 Wh/l. The olivine-type phosphate cathodes are attractive. The stable nature of the olivine-type structure having a PO43? polyanion with a strong P-O covalent bond provides not only excellent cycle-life but also a safe system. Further, olivines are resistant to overcharge and thermal degradation, and are inherently safer than oxides that may release oxygen at inopportune times. The robust covalent bonding of PO43?, however, reduces the compounds' ionic conductivities, and olivines require additional treatment with conductive aids to perform at reasonable capacities. Yardney Technical Products proposes to develop a high voltage (5V) olivine-type phosphate cathode, and a suitable electrolyte system for high energy Li-ion battery."
High Energy Density Storage for Solar Power Generation Systems,FA8650-08-M-5906,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2008,1,94990.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,Chief Operating Officer,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arthur Dobley,Research Scientist,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"One of the major challenges of developing solar power generation systems is the storage of electrical energy. The energy system ideally has a large amount of energy with a very low weight. This equates to a high specific energy (Wh/kg). Lithium-air batteries offer the greatest theoretical specific energy for batteries at 11 kWh/kg. Yardney has extensive experience in requirements for battery power and metal-air cells. We specialize in lightweight batteries used in aerospace applications. We also research, develop, and sell high energy density metal-air cells. Yardney will advance the Rechargeable Lithium-Air Storage System by creating an advanced rechargeable air cathode with new catalysts, and testing these cathodes in actual lithium-air cells under various environmental conditions. These batteries will provide a lightweight high energy storage device for military applications."
Nano-Engineered Materials for Rapid Rechargeable Space Rated Advanced Li-Ion Batteries,NNJ08JA67C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2008,2,597892.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,Chief Operating Officer,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joe Gnanaraj,Principal Investigator,8605991100,joeg@lithion.com,"Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are attractive candidates for use as power sources in aerospace applications because they have high specific energy, energy density and long cycle life. However, conventional Li-ion batteries experience loss of capacity and increased impedance and poor cycle life when they are charged/discharged at high rates over C-rate. These problems are magnified at low temperature operation. The limitations in the high rate capability of Li-ion batteries are mainly caused by slow solid-state diffusion of Li+ within the electrode materials Yardney/Lithion Inc., the world leader in cutting edge Li-ion battery technology proposes to investigate new non-toxic nano-engineered electrodes that significantly shortens the Li+ diffusion length within the electrode materials and increases the rate capability of Li-ion batteries. The goal of this Phase II project is to manufacture rapid recharge Li-ion battery for aerospace application. Yardney will manufacture 5 prototype cells capable of recharge at less than 15 min at room temperature. During the phase I we found that the nanoengineered anode showed excellent rate capabilities compared to planar electrode. Nanoarchitectured current collector provides higher safety due to large surface area contact with the active material and that acts as heat sink in high rate applications and also lower impedance."
High Capacity Nano-Composite Cathodes for Human-Rated Lithium-Ion Batteries,NNX08CB65P,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2008,1,98992.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,Cheif Operating Officer,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Malgazorta Gulbinska,Principal Investigator,8605991100,mgulbinska@lithion.com,"Non-incremental improvements are necessary in lithium-ion batteries order to meet future space applications demands such as NASA's call for lithium-ion battery cathodes with specific capacity values exceeding 240mAh/g at C/2 discharge rate and 25Ã½Ã½C. Novel concepts for lithium-ion battery chemistry and/or design are therefore desired. Yardney Technical Products, Inc. proposes a development of an advanced nano-composite cathode, based on two crucial components, each performing a different vital function:
?The first component, a layered non-transition oxide material will provide the matrix of the composite and ensure that the cathode voltage falls above ~4.0V.
?The metallic nano-particulate domains, dispersed uniformly within the layered oxide matrix will provide the composite cathode with a potentially high specific capacity. Metallic nanoparticles are expected to form an in-situ oxide phase upon cycling in a lithium ion battery.
The composite electrode material may be coated with a thin layer of carbon in order to enhance the electronic conductivity of the as-synthesized composite electrode."
Thermally Stable High Energy Lithium-Ion Batteries for Naval Aviation Applications,N68335-08-C-0198,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2008,1,79499.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,"Vincent A. Yevoli, Jr.",President/COO,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joseph Gnanaraj,Material Scientist,8605991100,joeg@lithion.com,"Yardney Technical Products, (YTP) proposes to develop, test and deliver high-performance Li-ion batteries capable of operation at expanded temperature range to meet the demanding requirements of naval aircraft. YTP, in collaboration with the University of Rhode Island, has been working on the development of innovative technologies that should result in durable, lightweight, Li-Ion batteries with significantly increased life performance at elevated temperatures. YTP proposes to take the innovations and concepts in this proposal (cathode type, stabilized electrolyte, binder solubility, stabilized surface coated cathodes, etc) and demonstrate that the combined enhancements will significantly improve the upper operating temperature. These improvements will also result in an ability to operate at higher voltages which, when combined with lightweight aluminum hardware, would result in significant increases in energy density and specific energy. While YTP has initially looked at some of the above areas, they have not yet been evaluated in conjunction with each other, optimized or even tested relative to the needs of naval aviation systems. YTP proposes to conduct this research as part of a Phase 1 and Phase 1 Option with the Phase 2 effort ultimately resulting in the delivery of vastly improved batteries with both traditional and iron phosphate technology."
Radically Designed High Energy Metal-Air Cell for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles,FA8651-08-C-0141,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2008,2,748502.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,"President, Chief Operatin",8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arthur Dobley,Research Scientist,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase II project will advance an efficient and lightweight energy storage device for Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAV) by developing a high energy density lithium-air battery with the new radically designed cell developed in the Phase I. Specifically, the project advances high energy density cells by focusing on increasing the energy density of these cells. Our high-energy air cathodes, with an increased oxygen diffusion rate, are incorporated into the cells. Several areas to optimize the cells have been identified and will be investigated. These cells produce power by the lithium reacting with the air cathode. This significantly decreases the weight by consuming oxygen from the air. Yardney's experience and technologies in oxygen cathodes and powers sources will be adopted in the design of the lithium-air batteries. Advantages of the proposed lithium-air battery include: a safe design, high energy density, a lightweight design, and a high energy density cathode."
Manganese Oxides-Based 5V Composite Cathode Materials for Li-Ion Batteries in HEV and PHEV Applications,DE-FG02-08ER85083,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2008,1,99758.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,John Dufrat,Mr.,8605991100,jdufrat@lithion.com,Malgorzata K. Gulbinska,Dr.,8605991100,mgulbinska@lithion.com,"The rapidly growing market for Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) represents a new and exciting application for lithium-ion batteries. However, major improvements are desired in specific energy values (>350 Wh/kg), voltage range (>4.8V), and safety. This project will develop a 5V cathode as a composite of three components: (1) a spinel-structured LiMxMn2-xO4 material (M = Ni, Cu, or Cr) to provide electrochemical stability for the cathode; (2) a layered LiMxMn1-xO4 material (M = Ni, Cu, or Cr) as the high-capacity component; and (3) a thin layer of Al2O3 or ZnO, applied as a coating. The Al2O3 or ZnO coating is used to inhibit potential detrimental reactions with the electrolyte at high potentials (>4.6V), which otherwise may occur on an uncoated, highly discharged, spinel-based electrode surface. Following Phase I, the best candidates will be synthesized and scaled up for application in Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The technology should contribute to the development of lithium-ion batteries with specific energies as high as 350 Wh/kg. In addition to PHEVs, these battery systems should be highly desirable in the portable electronics market (notebooks, cellular phones, portable medical devices, etc.) and in other consumer and military applications such as portable instruments (testing and medical), power tools, and satellites."
Improved Bearing Compartment Sealing for Gas Turbine Engines,FA8650-07-M-2778,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2007,1,99255.00,"ADVANCED COMPONENTS & MATERIALS, INC.",1360 HIGH HAWK ROAD,,EAST GREENWICH,RI,02818 1361,No,No,No,Amitava Datta,President/Owner,4018855064,adatta@worldnet.att.net,Amitava Datta,President/Owner,4018855064,adatta@worldnet.att.net,"Carbon seals generlly used for bearing compartments will incrasingly become unsuitable for future gas turbine engines with higher buffer air temperatures, higher pressur and rotor surface speeds.Phase I effort will focus on a synergistic approach including advanced materials and design.Three materials including a (Ti,Mo)(C,N) cermet, B-C composite and a current high temperature grade carbon MAT-1200 will be characterized for wear, oxidation resistance, impact strength and corrosion resistance in bearing oil. Both (Ti,Mo)(C,N)cermet and B-C composite have a much lower dry running wear rate, superior thermal stability and impact resistance compared to carbon.Advanced materials will be complemented with two non-contacting film riding design concepts; one based on hydrosttic arch-bound and another radial groove circumferential seal to furher minimize wear and degradation of leakage performance. Based on Phase I results, Phase II will focus on further design optimization using a comprehensive design code and performance testing of the down-selected design and material combination."
Efficient Adaptive Beamforming for Missile Defense Radars,W9113M-07-C-0080,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2007,1,100000.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,Michael A. Deaett,Principal Engineer,4012950062,miked@appliedradar.com,"The detection and classification of reentry vehicles in the presence of jammers and clutter is a very important missile defense radar problem. High resolution, wideband adaptive beamforming (ADBF) is an important solution component in which both the transmit and receive beamforming weight vectors are dynamically updated to optimize performance in a time varying jammer and clutter environment. An important constraint on wideband ADBF performance is the high cost of current radar system implementations. During Phase I, Applied Radar will use an extensive beamforming technology base to demonstrate that a wide band, minimum variance, diagonally loaded adaptive beamformer architecture can be integrated into a low-cost, high speed digital beamformer. This research builds on our previously developed innovative, scaleable beamformer architecture. During Phase II, the beamformer hardware will be programmed and interfaced to an array such as an MDA SPEAR panel and the predicted performance demonstrated. Using realistic unclassified engagement scenarios, we will quantify the improvements in missile defense enabled by our technology. We have identified two technology transition paths, one military and the other commercial. We are teamed with a university partner actively engaged in commercial wireless research. We are also supported by an MDA prime radar development contractor."
Development of Digital Receiver/Exciters for Missile Defense Radars,W9113M-07-C-0079,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2007,1,100000.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"This proposal will address the development of digital receivers and exciters capable of supporting > 1 GHz of instantaneous bandwidth (IBW). The technology will be used in large scalable BMD radar arrays employing a digital waveform generator and digital receiver at the analog input/output of each subarray panel. The receivers/exciters include the necessary up/downconversion and local oscillator circuitry necessary to generate or receive an X-band waveform. Recent developments in > 2 GSPS A/D and D/A chipsets and state-of-the-art FPGA technology allow the real-time processing of wideband (> 1 GHz) radar data, while commercially-available MMIC and PLL chipsets allow the translation of the baseband signals to/from X-band. Several challenges exist in the packaging of the mixed-signal electronics in a manner suitable for a large radar array, routing of the high-speed digital signals both on- and off-board, and cohering of the many receiver/exciter channels across the array. The output of the proposed digital receiver/exciter channels would likely be fed to a wideband digital beamformer array. In Phase I, Applied Radar will design the digital receiver/exciter hardware for a single channel, and develop a multi-channel hardware architecture and packaging approach. In Phase II, the hardware will be fabricated and tested, and integrated with an array such as an MDA SPEAR panel."
Wideband Digital Beamforming for SPEAR,W9113M-07-C-0127,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2007,2,997621.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"In the proposed Phase II effort, Applied Radar, Inc. will develop a wideband scaleable digital beamforming (DBF) processor capable of supporting > 1 GHz of instantaneous bandwidth (IBW). The new patented hardware architecture paradigm developed in Phase I is scaleable in the number of input channels, the number of output beams, and bandwidth. Hence, it is directly applicable to large BMD radars such as the scaleable panel for efficient array radiation (SPEAR) radar architecture presently being developed by MDA. Wideband (2 - 3 GSPS) digital receivers and exciters, currently being developed by Applied Radar under separate funding, may be used as the front-end input/output channels for the DBF processor. Applied Radar is teamed with one of the two SPEAR Spiral 1 contractors, and will develop in Phase II a prototype of the DBF processor and bench-test this digital hardware with SPEAR Spiral 1 panel in the laboratory. In addition, specifications will be produced for the array analog and digital hardware including oscillator phase noise and dynamic range. In the Phase II Option, the prototype hardware will be refined, and a more advanced radar demo will be performed in an outdoor environment."
Active RF Circulators,W31P4Q-07-C-0006,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2007,2,2249697.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"The development of broadband high-isolation active circulators with simultaneous transmit and receive (STAR) capabilities would enable increased persistence in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) systems and allow multiple simultaneous radar modes including SAR, GMTI and AMTI for global and local multifunction and multi-task operations. Previous works in MMIC active circulators demonstrated the concept and feasibility to realize the devices with stringent design requirements in order to achieve broadband and high isolation operation. Various active circulator configurations which are capable of STAR applications have been studied in our Phase I R&D, including a compilation of desired specifications for STAR radar application. The Phase I investigation also considered available device technologies and substrate materials in terms of power handling, frequency, bandwidth, isolation and interface matching. The Phase II effort will extend this work to implement and realize a broadband high-isolation active circulator with STAR and MMIC capabilities. The proposed work will include a trade-space study on the performance sensitivity of the active circulator based on power-to-noise and bandwidth-to-isolation requirements, development of active matching circuitry at antenna interface, development of feedforward cancellation circuits, final selection of foundry technology for device fabrication in terms of high power and low noise Figure (NF) applications, and finally device fabrication and testing. The development of a high-performance MMIC-based circulator will enable system-on-a-chip architectures with high isolation over a relatively wide bandwidth, while minimizing size and cost for phased array radar application."
Coherent Distributed Aperture Enabled Active Electronically Steered Array (CDA-AESA),W9113M-08-C-0018,DOD,MDA,STTR,2007,1,99999.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael A. Sherry,Vice President/General Manager,4012950062,msherry@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"Our missile defense capability crucially depends on radar performance to detect, track and discriminate hostile targets. New radar designs being developed offer enhanced capability. However, a significant impediment to the deployment of these new radars is the high cost of active electronically scanned arrays (AESAs) and in particular the antennas upon which they are based. Together with our internationally recognized research partner, we propose a design-to-cost research effort to demonstrate reduced cost AESAs that enable highly capable coherent distributed aperture (CDA) radar systems. This work will leverage previous investments by Applied Radar, Inc. in AESA technology, providing proof-of-concept hardware and a possible alternate low-cost SPEAR array solution meeting the system requirements. The hardware consists of a wideband array, T/R module, digital receiver/exciter (DREX) and digital beamformer (DBF). The new array hardware is capable of supporting a 4X increase in system bandwidth over the current capability. Degrees of freedom (DOF) reduction techniques are used at the array aperture level in order to reduce the digital data flow and simplify the design without compromising performance. An open systems architecture is utilized throughout the hardware development to allow incremental improvements to various components of the system. The AESA array demonstrator is designed to fit within a scalable architecture and can be sized to meet the needs of various applications. In Phase I, a conceptual design to meet SPEAR requirements will be designed around existing Applied Radar hardware, utilizing CDA concepts. In Phase II a hardware demonstrator will be built and tested."
Naval Device Applications of Relaxor Piezoelectric Single Crystals,N00014-07-M-0317,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2007,1,70000.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David A. Brown,President,4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,David A. Brown,President,4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,"We propose a compact broadband underwater cylindrical transducer with directional capabilities for acoustic communications (ACOMMS) for unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) and gliders. Our proposed solution is to incorporate single crystals and directional capabilities into the acoustic modem transducer, thereby increasing overall system capability. BTech has designed and built improved modem transducers using segmented single crystal (PMN-PT) rings, which offer increased bandwidth and electroacoustic efficiency. BTech has also demonstrated directional capabilities with PZT based modems. The two technologies will be combined to achieve a directional broadband single crystal modem."
High Frequency Broadband Hybrid Transducer/Amplifier,N00014-07-M-0377,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2007,1,70000.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David A. Brown,President,4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,David A. Brown,President,4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,"We propose a compact broadband underwater cylindrical transducer with integrated power amplifier for multiple applications, including acoustic communications (ACOMMS) for unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) and gliders. Such compact, modular devices could be used alone or arranged into various array configurations. On existing platforms, the power amplifier and tuning inductor resides within the internal cavity of the vehicle, taking up valuable space and contributing to excessive heating and electrical interference of nearby electronics. Our proposed solution is to incorporate the power amplifier into the transducer package of our commercially available BT-2RCL acoustic modem transducer, thereby reducing overall system complexity and enabling increased array scalability. This also allows transducers to be swapped out for different applications without needing to open the vehicle. BTech has designed and built improved modem transducers using segmented single crystal (PMN-PT) rings, which offer increased bandwidth and electroacoustic efficiency. Both PZT and single crystal cylindrical transducers with integrated power electronics will be developed in this project. Our innovative PZT and single crystal transducer technology, combined with state-of-the-art power amplifier designs, will provide a compact broadband solution for UUV and glider users. The technology is readily applicable to conformal sail and bow arrays."
Distributed Sensor System Innovations,N00014-07-M-0247,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2007,1,70000.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David A. Brown,President,4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,David A. Brown,President,4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,This proposal is for the design and development of a new low cost directional acoustic sensor technology with integrated acoustic modem capabilities for distributed sensor systems. The study addresses the feasibility to significant improve legacy performance of current A-size directional sonobuoy sensors with a new sensor and processing approach and to establish performance predictions for the new sensor/system for the smaller MJU-10 size sonobuoys and distributed sensors.
Naval Device Applications of Relaxor Piezoelectric Single Crystals,N00014-07-M-0451,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2007,1,69998.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David A. Brown,President,4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,David A. Brown,President,4012619318,dbAcoustics@cox.net,A single crystal cylindrical ring transducer with multi-resonant broadband operation is described with counter measure and general purpose sonar applications.
Miniaturization of Thermoacoustic Expander for 50 mW Recuperative Coolers Run Below 40 K,W9113M-07-C-0021,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2007,1,99652.00,"CRYOWAVE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY, INC.",58 Washington Street,,Pawtucket,RI,02860,No,No,No,Zhimin Hu,President,4017286488,cryowave@gmail.com,Zhimin Hu,President,4017286488,cryowave@gmail.com,"The objective of this program is to demonstrate and miniaturize a new type of cryogenic expander, thermoacoustic expander (TAE), for space cryocoolers which provide the cooling power less than 50 mW and operate in the low temperature range between 40K and 10K for cooling SWIR, MWIR, and LWIR surveillance and interceptor systems. TAEs employ high energy acoustic waves generated with absolutely no mechanical moving parts at the cold expander to produce efficient cooling over a wide temperature range. The TAE can replace more conventional complex mechanical moving part turbines or piston expanders as well as Joule Thomson expanders. The novel expander is applicable to cooling multiple sensors or focal planes especially if they must be vibrationally decoupled from the host vehicle, and allowes for efficient integration of a low mass cold head with remote and/or numerous objects to be cooled. In phase I, a proof of concept unit will be designed, fabricated and tested."
Small Buoy for Energy Harvesting,N00039-07-C-0076,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2007,1,67429.00,Electro Standards Laboratories,36 western Industrial Drive,,Cranston,RI,02921-,No,No,No,Raymond Sepe,Vice President R&D,4019431164,rsepe@electrostandards.com,Steven Bastien,Research Scientist,4019431164,StevenB@lab.electrostandards.com,"A ""Small Buoy for Energy Harvesting"" has applications for use on current and future buoy systems used by the submarine fleet of the United States Navy. This work proposes to meet the requirements by converting mechanical wave energy to electrical energy using a generation system housed in a spar buoy. The energy extraction method will work with the natural orientation and motion of the buoy. Accumulated energy can be used to power a variety of systems including surveillance and communications and will greatly extend the operational capabilities of remote and independent marine based platforms."
Optimization of a Multivalent Tuberculosis Vaccine,1R43AI075830-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2007,1,590912.00,"EPIVAX, INC.",146 CLIFFORD STREET,,PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Julie M. Mcmurry,,,grants@epivax.com,Anne S. Degroot,,4012722123,ANNIED@EPIVAX.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This new Phase I SBIR proposal addresses the continuing worldwide need for a tuberculosis (TB) vaccine. We detail a novel multivalent strategy that aims to elicit immunity to prevent reactivation of latent TB. This epit
ope-driven, DNA-prime, protein-boost TB vaccine has been in development since 1997, when our immunoinformatics tools were first applied to identify T cell epitopes from TB proteins. In progress made during the three years of NIH and Sequella/Aeras TB Found
ation support, we completed mapping of three sets of TB epitopes including novel epitopes predicted directly from the TB CDC1551 genome. In the next phase of the research program, building on our own experiences and our collaborations, we seek to develop t
he optimal vaccination strategy, using HLA transgenic mice as the model for in vivo study. Before the start of the performance period, we will make the final epitope selections. In the course of the SBIR award period, selected epitopes will be formulated a
s DNA and peptide/protein vaccines. By means of a prime-boost vaccination strategy, we will optimize key vaccination parameters (administration route, antigen targeting, adjuvant) to induce the greatest immunogenicity as assessed by cytokine production of
stimulated immune cells. Next, we will determine the protective efficacy of the optimized TB vaccine against the standard bacilli Calmette-Gu rin (BCG) vaccine and as a boost in HLA transgenic mice pre-vaccinated with BCG. Successful completion of this wor
k will set the stage for Phase II development that will partner the vaccine with improved recombinant BCG vaccines and assess efficacy in additional strains of HLA transgenic mice."
Epitope-driven deimmunization of Factor VIII,1R43HL088834-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2007,1,528313.00,"EPIVAX, INC.",146 CLIFFORD STREET,,PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Julie Mcmurry,,,grants@epivax.com,Anne S. Degroot,,4012722123,ANNIED@EPIVAX.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Hemophilia A patients are prone to develop inhibitory immune responses to the very therapy they require: Factor VIII protein replacement. Up to 30% of all hemophiliacs and greater than 50% of severe hemophiliacs produce
antibodies (inhibitors) in response to treatment. Immunogenicity to Factor VIII (FVIII) is its most significant complication: immunogenicity not only reduces or eliminates the therapeutic efficacy, but also requires that FVIII be delivered by invasive rou
tes since less invasive routes are known to further increase the immunogenicity of therapeutic proteins. To address this problem, it is necessary to develop a less immunogenic FVIII that will provide hemophiliacs with the benefits of prophylactic Factor VI
II therapy without the interference of neutralizing antibodies. Neutralizing antibody formation, the root cause of FVIII therapy failure, is a process dependent on antigen presenting cell signaling to helper T cells. We thus propose to develop a de- imm
unized version of FVIII by T-cell epitope modification. FVIII contains highly immunogenic T- cell epitopes that are excellent targets for mutation in order to prevent T cell-dependent antibody formation. The aims of this Phase I SBIR are to (1) identify an
d select the key immunodominant T-cell epitopes in FVIII that are responsible for its immunogenicity, (2) strategically modify those epitopes using point amino acid changes as guided by EpiVax' validated immunoinformatics tools and techniques and (3) to de
monstrate that reengineered individual FVIII domains have reduced immunogenicity in a mouse model of hemophilia. A series of FVIII domain variants bearing single epitope modifications will be produced and their immunogenicity will be evaluated. The focus o
f a Phase II SBIR will be studies of FVIII constructs bearing multiple epitope modifications (combinations of the modifications identified during Phase I). These research and development programs will lead to the development of a commercially available and
fully functional Factor VIII protein that has significantly reduced immunogenicity as confirmed in HLA transgenic mice and Factor VIII deficient mice. Epitope-driven deimmunization of factor VIII 12,000 Americans have the blood clotting disorder Hemophili
a A, and as such are susceptible to a host of complications from chronic bleeding of the joints to life threatening blood loss due to traumatic injury. This proposal describes a plan to produce an improved clotting protein (Factor VIII) that could be used
to treat hemophiliacs since the current treatment is often rejected by the body. The proposed reengineered protein will be evaluated in a mice that have a hemophilia as well as in mice that have a human- like immune system."
"Enhanced, All-Weather Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) Sense and Avoid (SAA)",FA8650-07-M-3729,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2007,1,99316.00,"FLIGHT SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES, INC.","1130 Ten Rod Road, Suite E102",,North Kingstown,RI,02852,No,No,No,Neal E. Fine,Senior VP Technology,4016677254,nfine@flysafetech.com,Robert L. Cooperman,Senior Principle Engineer,4016677254,nfine@flysafetech.com,"This SBIR Phase I proposal requests $99739 for Flight Safety Technologies, Inc. to investigate the feasibility and all-weather capability of a novel radar concept as an active, non-cooperative SAA sensor for UAVs. The concept radar, which we call Unicorn, is a narrow-band pulsed radar operating around a center frequency of 5.145 GHz in the aviation C-band, which has been approved for this developmental use by the FAA and FCC. In this proposed Phase I effort, we will perform concept and preliminary design trade-off studies to support application of the Unicorn architecture to the Global Hawk UAV as an all-weather sensor, while using existing field test data to validate the modeling and simulation tools used in the design effort."
Alternative Aggregate Combat Modeling Algorithms,W31P4Q-07-C-0269,DOD,DARPA,STTR,2007,1,98754.00,"Gnosys, Inc.",198 Broadway,,Providence,RI,02903,No,No,Yes,James Panagos,President,4016320280,jpanagos@gnosyssystems.com,Mikel Petty,"Director, CMSA",2568243468,pettym@uah.edu,"We propose to develop a means of combining unit-level and entity-level combat simulations that combines the best features of both and avoids the problems and overhead of multi-resolution simulations and inter-level interactions. The essential idea, which will be elaborated in the following sections, is to develop new alternative aggregate-level algorithms for key combat phenomenology (moving, sensing, and shooting) that are based on entity-level models, with their associated natural entity level of resolution and direct supportability by data, but have been abstracted to allow their responsive execution in the context of a unit-level simulation. These new algorithms will eliminate the need for aggregation, disaggregation, and entity control handoff, at least for purposes of resolving unit-level combat."
"High Power, High Repetition Rate, Pulsed, Blue Laser for ASW Purposes",N68335-07-C-0476,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2007,1,78285.00,"HOPE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.",185 East Main Rd.,,Little Compton,RI,02837,Yes,No,No,Katherine Cipolla,Business Manager,6175246505,katharinecipolla@netscape.net,Robert Chivas,Senior Research Engineer,6173539932,kodiak@bu.edu,"Yb double clad lasers are the ""work horse"" of high power systems. By codoping with Sm to quench stimulated emission at 1,070 nm (4 level system), Yb/Sm can be forced to lase efficiently at 980 nm. By further using HOM (Higher Order Mode) fiber design, greater energy storage/length can be achieved, and the shorter length also favors 980 nm radiation. Frequency doubling the q-switched output from such a system with periodically polled lithium niobate, all of the required design criteria desired by the Navy can be met with this new concept."
Light Weight Electronic Pointing Device,W15QKN-07-C-0159,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2007,2,729996.00,"KVH INDUSTRIES, INC.",50 Enterprise Center,,Middletown,RI,02842 5279,No,No,No,Daniel R. Conway,VP Business Development,4018458112,dconway@kvh.com,Arent K. van Heyningen,"Chief Scientist, Prin. In",4018473327,akvh@kvh.com,"KVH Industries plans to take advantage of the work performed in Phase I, as well as some extensive internally-funded R&D, to create an affordable, accurate, FOG-based Northfinder. The Phase II approach entails designing a true null seeking servo driven system, using a highly accurate single-axis FOG to measure earth's rotation rate, integrated with two accelerometers for pitch and roll measurements. When treated as a target, North can be detected as the FOG is rotated until it ultimately measures 'zero.' The FOG optical circuit will be made from a small-diameter KVH fiber wound on a bobbin using a Quadrupole winding technique. Since the Phase I effort, KVH's small-diameter fiber has been perfected and tested with Quadrupole winding on standard production FOGs. Results of the accelerometer work performed in Phase I show that the pitch and roll accuracies required can be achieved, and an early Northfinding prototype recently built by KVH shows achievable North finding accuracy as well."
Data Documentation Database (D3): An Essential Research Tool,1R43DA022090-01A2,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2007,1,129972.00,"MJ DATA CORPORATION, LTD",7 Thurber Boulevard,,Smithfield,RI,02917-,Yes,Yes,No,Allison P. Minugh,,,aminugh@mjdatacorp.com,P. A. Minugh,,4013311500,AMINUGH@MJDATACORP.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): SBIR Abstract for DATACORP's Data Documentation Database (D3) Data documentation is an intricate and time-consuming task. Practical experience has shown that research studies frequently save time and financial costs by
delegating the task to less experienced staff or by incompletely documenting the data. Yet poor documentation threatens the data's integrity, leads to improper recommendations or differential findings, and renders the data difficult to use. In the course o
f conducting its own research, Datacorp has developed a solution. The Data Documentation Database, or D3, is a software application that systematically documents the data collected by a typical social science, behavioral health, or epidemiological study. T
he package is easy to use, can be implemented quickly, does not require the data to be stored within it, and does not require advanced knowledge of data documentation or data management techniques. The D3 is a comprehensive documentation system. It goes be
yond merely housing names and labels and records a history of the data set as it evolves. It documents changes made to the data sets, data cleaning processes, and data analyses. The D3 mines this rich set of information to produce customizable reports adhe
ring to recognized standards. Reports are available in a variety of exportable formats that researchers can use in submissions to data archives or to support in house research. The D3 also creates programmatic syntax for common statistical software package
s, eliminating the duplication of effort that deters researchers from documenting. The SBIR grant will help Datacorp transform the database into a standardized commercial product. Grant funds will be used to confirm the D3's applicability in a variety of r
esearch settings. The SBIR grant will also support efforts to research training materials needed to support D3 customers. The final result will be a software application that produces complete, detailed, and accurate documentation for researchers in the fi
eld. SBIR Narrative for DATACORP's Data Documentation Database (D3) The D3 provides researchers in the public health and social science fields with a fast and simple way of dynamically documenting the data on their projects from start to finish. Researcher
s and funding agencies will benefit from having transparent, well-documented data. This will lead to more accurate, replicable results and substantiated recommendations on research studies."
High Content Screening for Muscular Dystrophy,1R43NS059098-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2007,1,99912.00,"MYOMICS, INC.","MYOMICS, INC.",148 West River Street,PROVIDENCE,RI,02904 2615,No,No,No,Victoria B. Miss,,,hvandenburgh@brown.edu,Herman H. Vandenburgh,,4013318500,HERMAN_VANDENBURGH@BROWN.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Myomics' drug screening technology to be developed in this Phase 1 SBIR project for Duchene muscular dystrophy (DMD) is based upon an in vitro skeletal muscle tissue force measurement technique for high content screenin
g (HCS) of compounds to attenuate muscle weakness. Currently, there are few drugs besides Prednisone which are used clinically to slow muscle weakness in DMD patients. The drug screening technology, termed Patterned Micro-Post-Arrays (P-fPA), is comprised
of bioengineered skeletal muscle tissue attached to micro-mechanical sensors in a ninety-six well format to quantitatively measure muscle contractile forces. Miniature BioArtificial Muscles (mBAMs) are three-dimensional (3-D) contractile tissues with organ
ized striated skeletal muscle fibers which can generate directed force when electrically stimulated. Myomics' mBAM tissue/sensor composite is capable of repetitive nondestructive force measurements long term over several weeks. The sensors therefore provid
e physiological data regarding tissue function in response to long-term exposure to a drug. Such long term studies can determine cumulative effects of drugs on 3-D tissues which are not apparent in shorter term single cell or monolayer screening technologi
es. mBAMs have been successfully engineered to grow within the sensors and generate force using P-fPA prototypes. The purpose of this project is to expand these preliminary studies into reproducible quantitative muscle force measurements for up to 14 days
on mBAMs bioengineered from skeletal myoblasts isolated from the mdx mouse, a genetic animal model of DMD (Dystrophic mBAMs, DmBAMs). Briefly, the project will (1) determine optimal DmBAM bioengineering in the micro-post geometry for measuring DmBAM restin
g and active tetanic contractile forces as well as myofiber formation; (2) determine the damaging effects of DmBAM eccentric contractions based on creatine kinase release, force generation, and muscle fiber morphology; and (3) test the ability of Prednison
e to attenuate this damage response. These studies will validate the P-fPA technology for DMD and lay the ground work for HCS screening of commercially available banks of compounds capable of attenuating the damaging effects of muscle use in dystrophic mus
cle. With Myomics' P-fPA technology, the physiological measurement of force generation by mBAMs is not limited to any particular known biochemical pathway and the measurement of force will be the result of both positive and negative drug effects. Thus, the
technology will not only screen compounds for positive muscle growth effects through known as well as unknown pathways, but will more rapidly eliminate target compounds with potential adverse side effects. This will lead to a greater chance of success in
follow-up preclinical animal studies in the mdx mouse and subsequent testing in Duchene muscular dystrophy patients for epigenetic drugs which can improve the longevity and quality of life of patients with this devastating disease. Duchene muscular dystrop
hy (DMD) is a genetically-inherited fatal skeletal muscle disease with few treatments currently available for slowing the loss of muscle strength. Myomics' high content drug screening technology to be developed in this project is aimed at identifying new d
rug candidates to attenuate skeletal muscle loss and thereby increase muscle strength. While not a cure for the disease, these new drug therapies are aimed at enhancing quality and longevity of life of the DMD patient."
SBIR Phase II: Physiologic High Throughput Screening of Bioengineered Tissues,0724445,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2007,2,499956.00,"MYOMICS, INC.","MYOMICS, INC.",148 West River Street,PROVIDENCE,RI,02904 2615,No,No,No,Herman D. Vandenburgh,PhD,4018619770,hvandenburgh@myomics.com,Herman D. Vandenburgh,PhD,4018619770,hvandenburgh@myomics.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II research develops an innovative high-throughput/high content drug screening platform that utilizes three-dimensional human skeletal muscle tissue constructs that mimic in vivo skeletal muscle to quantify muscle force generation. Significant demands exist for new drugs to treat contractility disorders involving skeletal muscle. Myomics' proposed drug testing platform will contribute to significant reductions in time and costs associated with bringing new drugs to market by discovering drug candidates and eliminating ineffective compounds earlier than currently possible. Unlike existing systems, this approach incorporates biomechanics into drug discovery using mechanical sensors to detect contraction of multiple identical tissue samples over extended time periods. Significant socioeconomic and quality-of-life impacts will result for patients with contractility disorders (sarcopenia, atrophy, or Duchennes muscular dystrophy). While most drug screening protocols test one protein pathway at a time, this
platform provides a unique physiological screening system and protocol which quantifies contraction as the result of multiple protein pathways interacting over time. The broader impacts of this research will be to enhance muscle contractility disorder/disease research and provide new tools to the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries for drug discovery. Upon successful development, the sensing mechanism will potentially be used to develop treatments for several contractile tissues relevant to a range of important human contractile disorders and diseases contributing to improved outcomes for these diseases."
Hybridization-Assisted Nanopore Sequencing,1R43HG004433-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2007,1,497734.00,"NABSYS, INC.","NABSYS, INC.","3 DAVOL SQ, STE A301",PROVIDENCE,RI,02903 4710,No,No,No,Barrett M. Bready,,,bready@nabsys.com,John S. Oliver,,4018632844,JOHN_OLIVER@BROWN.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The rationales for the development of technology that will enable extremely cheap, high speed sequencing are well established. Chief among these is the enablement of personalized medicine. There are currently in develop
ment several technologies that promise to markedly decrease the cost of sequencing a human genome. It is unclear, however, that any of these will be able to do so drastically enough to allow whole genome sequencing to become a routine clinical tool. Additi
onally, those technologies which are most promising on this cost parameter look as if they will face difficulties with respect to performance characteristics such as read length. One technology that promises to be cheap and fast and to provide long read le
ngths is nanopore-based sequencing. To date, however, nanopore sequencing has faced a number of technical challenges. The method of Hybridization-Assisted Nanopore Sequencing (HANS) overcomes these hurdles. HANS utilizes libraries of probes to detect subse
quences in the target DNA as in sequencing by hybridization (SBH). HANS differs from SBH, however, in that positional information is also extracted thus completely circumventing, the limitations of SBH and making genome length sequencing feasible. The HANS
platform will be capable of sequencing a human genome for substantially less than 1000. Additionally, it promises to do so quickly and accurately. Our specific aims are as follows: 1) Synthesize and test oligonucleotide tags for their ability to enhance
the nanopore's capacity to detect the presence and determine the positions of the oligonucleotides on the target DNA. 2) Determine the optimal algorithmic approach for sequence reconstruction and estimate values for the performance characteristics of the s
equencing platform."
Promoting Health During Pregnancy: A Multiple Behavior Expert System Intervention,1R43DP001115-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2007,1,158905.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice M. Prochaska,,,jpadula@prochange.com,Leanne M. Mauriello,,4018742017,LMAURIELLO@PROCHANGE.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Low birthweight and preterm birth are unfavorable birth outcomes that translate into serious and costly health issues, including infant morbidity and infant mortality. Research demonstrates that the health behaviors of
pregnant women are associated with not only birth outcomes, but also the future health of the child. The goal of this research is to develop an effective, population-based, tailored intervention based on the Transtheoretical Model to promote the adoption a
nd maintenance of health behaviors among underserved pregnant women. Multiple behavior changes will be addressed through individually tailored interventions for smoking cessation, stress management and fruit and vegetable consumption. The intervention cont
ent will teach and guide women through strategies for making behavior changes during pregnancy, with an emphasis on maintenance into the postpartum period. Multiple levels of formative research will be incorporated in this Phase I study. Expert consultants
will offer guidance on the design of the intervention and will conduct a formal review of the pilot prototype. Pregnant women will participate in focus groups, usability interviews, and a pilot test of the intervention prototype. Assessing channels for di
sseminating the proposed intervention will be incorporated throughout the Phase 1 study. This proposal offers innovative features that hold great promise for an effective intervention strategy, considerable commercial potential, and significant benefits fo
r populations of pregnant women and infants."
Bioprocessing of Plasma Therapeutic Proteins using Sequential Affinity Monolithic,1R43GM079071-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2007,1,170547.00,"PROTHERA BIOLOGICS, LLC",551 Warren Avenue,,EAST PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Yow P. Lim,,,yplim@protherabiologics.com,Yowpin Lim,,4013012046,YPLIM@PROTHERABIOLOGICS.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Plasma fractionation is one of the largest industry segments in global therapeutic protein manufacture. The United States plays an important role in this industry since it represents the largest plasma collection and ma
nufacturing base that accounts for more than 50% of the world supply of plasma. Even though more than 22 million liters of plasma are collected each year for fractionation, this amount cannot meet the high demand for plasma derivatives worldwide such as al
bumin (about 500 tons), FVIII (2 kg) and IgG (40 tons). Consequently, optimal fractionation methods are important to increase the various therapeutic proteins extracted from plasma and to improve the yields of the purified products. In spite of the continu
ed prevalence of protein based blood products in the clinical arena, the methods currently used to obtain them known as fractionation, are outdated and inefficient, a case in point being ethanol fractionation, a purification process developed during World
War II that still remains the backbone of most fractionation strategies in use today The recent addition of chromatographic methods for industrial scale plasma fractionation has become a standard approach in the last few years that has played a central rol
e in the development of a new generation of highly purified therapeutic plasma derivatives that includes coagulation factors, protease inhibitors and anticoagulants. Nevertheless, the scarcity of human plasma has created a pressing need for improving the y
ield of purified plasma proteins obtained using current fractionation technologies. The FDA through the Center of Biologics Evaluation (CDER) has long recognized that the development of biological products is becoming increasingly challenging. The agency h
as suggested that superior product development sciences are needed to address the challenges of greater efficiency and lower costs, essential goals if the United States is going to remain a leader in the develop of plasma derived therapeutics. In recogniti
on of this need, in this proposal, we will develop a strategy to radically improve the bioprocessing of plasma derived protein therapeutics by using specific affinity ligands immobilized on a new generation of chromatographic supports, an approach that sho
uld increase the yield, speed of production and quality of plasma derived products. Specifically, we will make use of Convective Interaction Media (CIM), a recently developed revolutionary chromatographic support based on methacrylate monoliths. In the pro
posed studies, a sequential chromatographic separation of human plasma on several affinity CIM supports will be designed to streamline the fractionation process of existing plasma derivatives such as immunoglobulins and clotting factors but also of newer c
lasses of plasma derived products such as protease inhibitors. In Specific Aim 1, we will develop affinity supports specific for various plasma proteins by immobilizing antibodies, peptides or synthetic dyes on epoxy-activated CIM columns. A major goal wil
l be to optimize the immobilization conditions by assessing performance, stability, and reusability of ligands coupled under different conditions and densities. In Specific Aim 2, we will develop purification protocols based on serially linked-affinity CIM
discs with the goal of obtaining a high level of purity and activity in a single step purification. We will also evaluate the yield and purity following scale-up of CIM separation protocols, a necessary step towards industrial level production that will b
e facilitated by the identical performance and purification profiles of short monoliths independently from their size or shape (disk, column or tube), The results of these investigations should provide the proof of concept for the use of CIM technology i
n industrial fractionation of human plasma."
Development of a Functional Health CAT for Managing Obesity,1R43DK078456-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2007,1,125151.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,Jill Klowan,,,jklowan@qualitymetric.com,John E. Ware,,4013348800,JWARE@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Development of a Functional Health CAT for Managing Obesity Abstract In recent decades the prevalence of obesity has increased dramatically in the United States, causing a great burden for the individual and society. Al
though behavioral factors are among the most prominent causes of obesity and numerous weight management programs are currently offered, few practical instruments are available today to measure the functional health and other characteristics of obese adults
that determine and define the success of weight management programs. We propose to use Item Response Theory (IRT) and Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) techniques to build a precise and short Patient-Reported Outcomes (PRO) instrument (OBESITY-CAT) to m
easure the impact of being obese on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and self-efficacy expectations. CATs tailor the questions administered to each individual respondent, thereby increasing the precision and range of measurement without increasing re
spondent burden. In Phase I we propose to: (1) construct two item banks to measure the impact of obesity on HRQOL and the self-efficacy expectation to control weight, (2) develop a comprehensive and flexible OBESITY-CAT software solution, including immedia
te feedback reporting, and (3) pilot test the new tool in comparison with traditional full-length static questionnaires. To achieve these aims, we have partnered with Magellan Health Services, one of the nations' largest managed care organizations, serving
40 million individuals. Together we will develop obesity-specific items tailored particularly for the CAT process, analyze the item parameters in a sample of 1,000 of their employees (~ 75% being overweight or obese), and finally test the feasibility and
acceptance of the OBESITY-CAT integrated into Magellan's nationwide weight management program in 100 participants. The product of Phase I will be a prototype comprehensive OBESITY-CAT with preliminary evidence regarding feasibility, acceptability, and empi
rical performance. In Phase II, the tool will be improved and further evaluated in terms of validity, reliability, and responsiveness, and its potential for use in predicting and monitoring treatment success, and the tool will be evaluated and programmed t
o be fully operational on different platforms, including PDAs and Interactive Voice Recognition (IVR). By greatly lowering data collection costs, reducing response burden, eliminating ceiling and floor effects and increasing the precision of individual
scores, routine monitoring of HRQOL may become feasible as a clinical tool among obese adults. The Obesity-CAT will be able to monitor the success of weight management programs to increase the health related quality of life of overweight and obese adults.
In addition, it will support tailoring weight management programs to the individual, and identify those which are at higher risk to drop-out of the program and need special attention. Compared to existing instruments, it will greatly lower data collection
costs, reduce response burden, and increase the precision of individual scores, so that routine monitoring of HRQOL may become feasible as a clinical tool among obese adults."
Development of a Computerized Adaptive Test for Patients with HIV Infection,1R43AI070029-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2007,1,184317.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,Barbara Hisiger,,,jklowan@qualitymetric.com,Diane M. Turnerbowker,,4013348800,DTBOWKER@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): With improvements in the survival of patients with HIV and AIDS, maximizing patients' functional status and well-being is increasingly an important treatment goal. Existing instruments for assessing HIV patients' self-
reported functional status and well-being are fixed-form static questionnaires. They have limitations in range and precision that can restrict their usefulness in situations such as small-group studies and routine clinical practice. The overall goal of our
project is to develop dynamic measures that combine computerized adaptive testing (CAT) technology and item response theory (IRT) to select the most relevant questions for each patient and provide brief, yet comprehensive and precise, assessments of patie
nt-reported outcomes (PRO) in patients with HIV infection. We will develop an HIV-specific computerized adaptive test (the HIV-CAT) and its constituent item banks and test the performance of this new measurement system. The aims in Phase I of this project
are: (1) to develop a prototype HIV-CAT that assesses PRO in seven health domains of relevance in HIV disease; (2) to test the feasibility and acceptability of administering the prototype HIV-CAT in clinical settings and through the Internet; and (3) to in
itialize construction of item banks for five additional domains specifically relevant to HIV disease. The prototype HIV-CAT will use existing item banks for physical functioning, bodily pain, general health perception, vitality, social functioning and ment
al health. An item bank for role functioning will be developed in Phase I using existing data. The five new item banks with particular relevance for HIV will cover the domains of cognitive function, body image, sleep, gastrointestinal symptoms and sexual f
unction. We will evaluate the prototype HIV-CAT and pilot the four preliminary item banks using a sample of 100 HIV-infected patients in the Johns Hopkins Moore (HIV) Clinic and another 100 answering via the Internet. The feasibility and acceptability of a
ssessments using the prototype HIV-CAT will be evaluated according to administration time; data completeness; patient-reported burden, relevance, and importance of the assessment; as well as IRT-based tests of response consistency. The five preliminary ite
m banks will be evaluated using both qualitative and quantitative methods. In Phase II of this project, the prototype HIV-CAT and its constituent item banks will be further developed and refined using data collected from large samples of HIV-infected patie
nts and the measurement properties of the HIV-CAT (such as precision, validity, and responsiveness) will be critically evaluated. The final tool will be useful in clinical research and practice, and will help providers better understand and monitor the imp
act of HIV and its treatment, thus improving quality of care for people living with HIV/AIDS. Question 7. Project Narrative The outcome of phase I of this SBIR will be a pilot HIV-CAT assessment system encompassing 12 health domains of relevance in HIV dis
ease: physical functioning, bodily pain, general health perception, vitality, social functioning, role functioning, mental health, cognitive function, body image, sleep, gastrointestinal symptoms and sexual function The final tool will be useful in clinica
l research and practice, and will help providers better understand and monitor the impact of HIV and its treatment, thus improving quality of care for people living with HIV/AIDS."
Computerized Adaptive Assessment of Asthma Impact,2R44HL078252-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2007,2,1993086.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,Jill Klowan,,,jklowan@qualitymetric.com,Diane M. Turnerbowker,,4013348800,DTBOWKER@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Several recent initiatives have emphasized the importance of developing and testing new technologies to measure patient-reported outcomes (PRO). PRO measures for asthma can be substantially improved using item response
theory (IRT), and competing objectives of more practical and more precise assessments can be achieved over a wide range of severity levels using computerized adaptive testing (CAT), which matches questionnaire items to each patient's level. If more availab
le, such information could complement asthma management plans, enhance patient-caregiver communication, and improve clinical decision-making. Among the limiting factors is the impracticality (respondent burden) of today's HRQOL measures. Short-forms (e.g.,
SF-36(r), AQLQ) are more practical, however, ceiling and floor effects limit their ranges and they lack the precision to detect changes in individual patient scores. In Phase I, we developed and piloted a prototype Internet-based assessment (ASTHMA-CA
T) that combines asthma impact, asthma control, and generic HRQOL measures in one seamless administration, and displays results in tandem in a single user-friendly aggregate (or group-level) report. Results from a pilot test of the ASTHMA-CAT showed that
the dynamic assessment achieved almost as precise score estimation with far less respondent burden than the full-length survey, and discriminated well between mild, moderate, and severe asthma. Patients and providers positively evaluated the ASTHMA-CAT as
sessment and report. The aims for Phase II are to: (1) evaluate items from our current asthma bank for psychometric performance and clinical relevance, and calibrate item enhancements by collecting and analyzing responses from large samples of adults varyi
ng in asthma severity; (2) build a completely functional and comprehensive ASTHMA-CAT system with centralized data capture, scoring, and real time feedback reports, and evaluate its psychometric performance through data simulation studies; (3) conduct a
longitudinal prospective field study of the ASTHMA-CAT to demonstrate its responsiveness, reliability, and construct validity; and to document the comparability of differing modes of administration (e.g., paper and pencil, tablet PC, Internet); (4) evaluat
e the ASTHMA-CAT's potential for use in remote self- management; and (5) foster the ASTHMA-CAT's integration into clinical practice through comprehensive documentation and development of educational materials. The goal of this effort is an efficient, less
burdensome asthma PRO monitoring system with demonstrated evidence of its administrative feasibility, reliability, validity, and responsiveness. If successful, the ASTHMA-CAT system will offer streamlined data capture, processing, and real time reporting
features; will produce valid and comparable scores across multiple modes of administration; and will provide useful interpretation guidelines to facilitate its routine application in care management. Public Heath Relevance: The ASTHMA-CAT will provide a c
omprehensive and precise, yet practical, patient-based assessment valid for routine monitoring of asthma impact, asthma control, and generic HRQOL outcomes across a variety of settings. It will yield meaningful and useful results to inform clinical decisio
n-making and improve care management."
Molecular Shape Detection for Chemical Analysis,W911NF-07-C-0091,DOD,ARMY,STTR,2007,1,100000.00,Ryon Technologies,200 Massasoit Ave.,,East Providence,RI,-,No,No,No,Peter M. Weber,Prof.,4018633767,peter_weber@brown.edu,J. D. Geiser,Senior Research Scientist,4018633767,peter_weber@brown.edu,"Mass spectrometry is a technology with wide-ranging applications in defense and homeland security. The technique is widely applicable and exceedingly sensitive, but for many molecules there can be ambiguities regarding the isomeric and conformeric form. As the number of atoms in a molecule increases, the number of stable isomers raises dramatically. Recent research has shown that the binding energies of electrons in molecular Rydberg states are highly sensitive to the molecular shape, giving rise to a method to characterize molecular shapes using Rydberg states. In this project, the aim is to combine this Rydberg fingerprint spectroscopy with mass spectrometry, by measuring the Rydberg fingerprints of molecular ions, such as those in a mass spectrometer, using a newly developed detector. The two-dimensional output, with mass as one coordinate and the Rydberg fingerprint as the other, will find many uses in the identification of chemical and biological agents, explosives, environmental analysis, and industrial chemicals."
Innovative Flow Control Devices for Shipboard Fluid System Rupture Isolation,N65538-08-M-0013,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2007,1,69872.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,David Miller,President,4018472260,dmiller@seacorp.com,Barry Holland,Project Manager,4018472260,bholland@seacorp.com,"Current shipboard emergency flow control devices for fluid systems use either pneumatic power or electric motors to close valves when a rupture is detected. These systems are dependent on the availability of the electric power or low pressure air systems. In a casualty situation, these support systems could also be lost and the flow control devices would not operate as intended, placing the ship in even greater extremis. SEA CORP proposes to use its extensive experience in the use of commercially available automotive airbag inflators to develop an innovative application of this existing technology to provide the pneumatic energy to autonomously close fluid system valves when a rupture is detected. The inflator(s) would be individually mounted to each valve and controlled by local circuitry that would normally use available ship's electrical power, but would have a small (D-cell size) battery backup in case normal power is lost. Algorithms will be developed, or adapted from current ""smart valve"" systems, to ensure that only those valves required to secure the rupture would close, allowing use of the remainder of the affected system. This technology is easily adaptable to commercial applications such as shipping, oil, and chemical facilities, especially in remote locations."
Sonobuoy - Electronic Function Selector (EFS) Replacement,N68335-07-C-0469,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2007,2,749998.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,David V. Miller,President,4018472260,dmiller@seacorp.com,Jonathan D. Tyler,Principal Engineer,8604450348,jtyler@seacorp.com,"Present sonobuoys require manual selection and verification of functions such as RF Channel, Depth, etc. with selection and verification impossible while the sonobuoys are loaded in the launcher or in the storage racks onboard. The capability to select and verify functions while the sonobuoys are loaded in the launcher or in onboard storage racks would save time and permit more operational flexibility permitting in-situ adjustments in a constantly-changing tactical environment. This could be accomplished using a direct operator interface to the multi-mission maritime aircraft (MMA) mission computer for all on-board launchers as well as storage racks. A wireless, battery-operated, handheld device useable in low light conditions that can interface to a standard personal computer (PC) could be used to facilitate individual buoy interrogation and set up. SEA CORP investigated and evaluated the potential of several wireless technological alternatives that would permit wireless programming via a handheld or rack-mounted device and concluded that infrared would prove the optimum data transfer method. Evaluation criteria included cost-effectiveness, PC interface, adaptability to the MMA, reliability and the ability to operate in various environments while minimizing interference with organic aircraft systems."
A Phase I SBIR Proposal to Lower the Cost and Improve the Manufacturing of Li-ion Batteries,HQ0006-07-C-7781,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2007,1,99103.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,Chief Operating Officer,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Thomas Barbarich,Research Scientist,8605991100,tbarbarich@lithion.com,"Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are attractive candidates for use as power sources in military, aerospace, commercial, and vehicular applications because they have high specific energy (up to 200 Wh/kg) and energy density (~ 500 Wh/L) and long cycle life (1,000 - 80,000 cycles currently depending on the depth of cycling). However, the production of these batteries for defense applications is often in low volumes that can lead to increased costs and defects compared to mass-produced Li-ion batteries for the commercial sector. There is a need within the Army, Navy, other military services, NASA, and the commercial sector to lower the manufacturing cost and reliability of low volume systems. The proposed effort will use a new manufacturing technique to simplify the construction that will lower cost and improve the reliability of Li-ion cells."
Phase I Nano-Engineered Anode Materials For Rapid Recharge High Energy Density Lithium-ion Batteries,N00014-07-M-0110,DOD,OSD,SBIR,2007,1,96655.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,Chief Operating Officer,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joseph Gnanaraj,Research Scientist,8605991100,joeg@lithion.com,"The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of producing a novel nano-engineered anode material that significantly shortens the Li+ diffusion length and enable lithium ion batteries capable of being quickly recharged in less than 15 minutes. A nanostructured electrode will be engineered by adapting template-assisted fabrication of copper nanorod arrays as miniature current collectors and depositing titanate based nano-particles on copper nanorod forest using a simple and inexpensive method of electrochemical deposition. Demonstrate its ability to apply a small laboratory half-cell that can charge in less than 15 minutes without deposition of metallic lithium. A recent study on electrodes with nano-architectured current collectors showed a promising high-rate capacity. Using such electrodes, the researchers demonstrated a factor of six improvements in power density over planar electrodes and an 80% retention of total capacity at 8C rate over 100 cycles. Yardney/Lithion, Inc., a leader in cutting edge Li-ion batteries technology and producers of such high power batteries for variety of commercial, aerospace and military applications, proposes in collaboration with research experts in nano-engineering of materials, at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts, to investigate nano-architectured amorphous TiO2 based anode materials for a new generation rapid recharge lithium ion battery."
State-of-Charge Technology for Zn-air Battery Systems,M67854-07-C-6505,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2007,1,69877.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,Chief Operating Officer,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arthur Dobley,Research Scientist,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"Many missions in remote locations are currently limited by the amount of power that can be carried on foot and/or left in place for unattended equipment operation. To solve the soldier's battery weight burden, advanced metal-air batteries are being developed. The monitoring of the effective battery power is a significant aspect for the military's use of these batteries. One problem with the advanced metal-air chemistry is a lack of a state-of-charge (SOC) indication technology that factors several environmental influences as well as the discharge profile. The benefits from the use of SOC technology are: indication of battery capacity, effective power management, prevention of premature replacement of batteries and reduced inventory levels resulting in overall cost reduction. The major drawback from the use of SOC technology is they can be expensive especially if discarded with a used battery. Yardney proposed SOC technology provides the benefits without the drawbacks. Yardney's SOC technology proposal can be incorporated in the battery adapter cable or as a stand-alone unit eliminating the drawbacks. It will use existing technology and a custom computer chip to monitor and indicate the batteries SOC with high accuracy. It will ultimately be small in size, low in weight, inexpensive and accurate."
Radically Designed High Energy Metal-Air Cell for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles,FA8651-07-M-0183,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2007,1,99103.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,President/Chief Operating Officer,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arthur Dobley,Research Scientist,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will advance an efficient and lightweight energy storage device for Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAV) by developing a high energy density lithium-air cell with a radical new design. Specifically, the project advances high energy density cells by focusing on increasing the energy density of our existing lithium-air cells with a radical new design. Our high-energy air cathodes, with an increased oxygen diffusion rate, will be incorporated into the cell designs. Several different designs with varying air diffusion techniques will be investigated. These cells produce power by the lithium reacting with the air cathode. This significantly decreases the weight by consuming oxygen from the air. Yardney's experience and technologies in oxygen cathodes and powers sources will be adopted in the design of the lithium-air cells. Advantages of the proposed lithium-air cell include a high energy density, lightweight design, and a high energy density cathode."
"Rapid Recharge, High Voltage Li-Ion Battery Chemistry",W911QX-08-C-0019,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2007,1,68341.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,Chief Operating Officer,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Thomas Barbarich,Senior Research Chemist,8605991100,tbarbarich@lithion.com,"One of the problems with Li-ion technology is its somewhat limited ability to charge at high rates. At high charge rates lithium plating on the negative electrode can occur, which will hurt cycle life and could present safety risks. There is a need within the Army, Navy, other military services, NASA, and the commercial sector to improve the charge rate capability of Li-ion systems. The proposed effort will use an anode that is capable of intercalating lithium at high rates without plating lithium. In order to compensate for the lower energy of this anode, a high voltage cathode and an accompanying electrolyte will also be developed."
Energy Storage Systems for Very High Altitude Very Long Endurance Solar Aircraft,W31P4Q-08-C-0090,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2007,1,98865.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,President Chief Operating Officer,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arthur Dobley,Research Scientist,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"One of the major challenges of developing aircraft is the development of an appropriate energy system. The energy system ideally has a large amount of energy with a very low weight. This equates to a high specific energy (Wh/kg). Lithium-air batteries offer the greatest theoretical specific energy for batteries at 13 kWh/kg. Yardney has extensive experience in requirements for battery power and metal-air cells. We specialize in lightweight batteries used in aerospace applications. We also research, develop, and sell high energy density metal-air cells. Yardney will research a Rechargeable Lithium-Air Storage System by creating an advanced rechargeable air cathode, and testing these cathodes in actual lithium-air cells under various environmental conditions. These batteries will provide a lightweight high energy storage device for military applications."
"Inexpensive, Environmentally Benign Li-Ion Battery Cathode Materials for HEV and PHEV Applications",DE-FG02-07ER86333,DOE,DOE,STTR,2007,1,99456.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,John Dufrat,Mr,8605991100,jdufrat@lithion.com,Malgorzata Gulbinska,Dr,8605991100,mgulbinska@lithion.com,"This project will develop inexpensive and environmentally benign LiMnPO4 cathodes for applications to lithium-ion batteries (LIB) used in electric and hybrid electric vehicles. This cathode material is expected to be far safer than Li-ion batteries employing traditional layered LiMO2 (M=Co, Ni) materials. A number of synthetic modifications will be pursued to optimize the LiMnPO4 material for use in Li-ion batteries: (1) decreasing the average particle size to a nano-region via sol-gel synthesis, thereby shortening the Li-ion diffusion path and ensuring the high rate performance of LiMnPO4 cathode materials; (2) doping with 1 atom percent of Nb5+ or Zr4+, which has proven successful in enhancing the electronic conductivity of LiFePO4 cathodes; and (3) adding conductive carbon nanoparticles during the sol-gel process, which also should increase the electronic conductivity of LiMnPO4 cathodes. In Phase I, cells will be tested for irreversible capacity, impedance, rate capability within varied temperature ranges, and self discharge rates. In-depth electrochemical characterizations of the best cathode candidate(s) will follow in Phase II, based on selected testing procedures of the DOE and the U.S. Advanced Battery Consortium. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: Safe, inexpensive, and environmentally benign lithium-ion cells, with the high energy density and high-rate capability, should benefit the electric vehicle (EV) and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) markets. Other niche markets include military man pack batteries and charging sources, aircraft applications, and specialized industrial applications."
"Composite, Nanoparticle-Based Anode Materials for Li-Ion Batteries Applied in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)",DE-FG02-07ER86332,DOE,DOE,STTR,2007,1,99457.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Kris Johanessen,Mr,8605991100,kjohanessen@lithion.com,Malgorzata Gulbinska,Dr,8605991100,mgulbinska@lithion.com,"Lithium-ion batteries are promising energy storage devices for hybrid and electric vehicles, providing high specific energy (approximately 150 Wh/kg), energy density (approximately 400 Wh/L), and long cycle life (greater than 15 years). However, these applications require further increases in energy density and improved low-temperature (less than Â¿10 degrees C) performance. Silicon-based anodes are inexpensive, environmentally benign, and offer excellent theoretical capacity values (approximately 4000 mAh/g), with an energy density exceeding 500 Wh/L for the complete battery. However, the cycling-related expansion of silicon particles causes them to fracture and lose electrical contact with the current collector, thereby limiting the cycle life of the battery. This project will develop a carbon/nano-silicon composite anode with improved energy density and the cycle life of silicon. Phase I will focus on developing and screening advanced composite anode candidates for application in lithium-ion batteries. Phase II will take the successful anode candidates(s) and scale-up production for the successful anode candidate(s) and optimize an existing lithium-ion battery to accommodate the novel advanced material. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: Inexpensive, safe and environmentally benign lithium-ion cells, with high energy density and high-rate capability, should benefit the electric vehicle (EV) and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) markets. Other niche markets include military man pack batteries and charging sources, aircraft applications, and specialized industrial applications."
Lithium-Air / Lithium-Ion Hybrid Battery for Military Use,W15P7T-07-C-H406,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2007,2,727684.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,Chief Operating Officer,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arthur Dobley,Research Scientist,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase II project will advance a high energy and high power hybrid battery to power the dismounted soldier's electronics suite, and unattended sensors. One of the challenges of incorporating metal-air batteries into existing equipment is the power requirements. Metal-air systems are typically very high in energy density but low in power. A method to overcome the power issue to is to use a hybrid battery composed of the metal-air battery with another battery capable of high power discharges. The effort will be to construct and evaluate a high specific energy and high power lithium-air/ lithium-ion hybrid battery system. Specifically the project advances hybrid batteries by 1) integrating lithium-air and lithium-ion cells 2) applying our electronic hybrid configuration developed in phase one, and 3) evaluating the hybrid battery's performance and safety. Yardney will evaluate the hybrid's performance in various environmental conditions. Advantages of the proposed hybrid battery include a high energy density, high power, safe design, environmentally friendly components, and a high specific energy. This research will eventually lead to a hybrid system delivering a specific energy greater than 1000 Wh/kg."
Nano-Engineered Materials for Rapid Rechargeable Space Rated Advanced Li-Ion Batteries,NNJ07JB33C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2007,1,98865.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince C. Yevoli,Business Official,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joseph L. Gnanaraj,Principal Investigator,8605991100,joeg@lithion.com,"Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are attractive candidates for use as power sources in aerospace applications because they have high specific energy, energy density and long cycle life. Yardney/Lithion Inc has become the leader in cutting edge Lithium Ion batteries. At the present moment, two of the Lithion batteries are operating on the surface of Mars with great success. In a conventional Li-ion battery when the rate is higher than C, their charge/discharge performance is severely degraded and loss its capacity permanently. Now we are focusing our interest to develop Li-ion batteries that can rapidly charge/discharge at high current rates. Yardney in collaboration with researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, MA, proposes to investigate a new non-toxic nano-engineered electrode that significantly shortens the Li+ diffusion length within the electrode materials and increases the rate capability of Li-ion batteries. The goal of Phase I of this project will be to develop new nano-architectured anode that has rapid Li+ recharge characteristics. Emphasis will be placed upon the construct of Fe3O4 based nano-engineered electrodes with Cu nanorods as current collectors. The high-rate capabilities change with the change in the diameter, packing density and aspect ratio of the Cu nanorods will be studied."
Adult human skeletal muscle stem cells for functional repair,1R43AG029705-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2007,1,500002.00,"CELLCURE, INC.",135 PROSPECT STREET,,PROVIDENCE,RI,02906,No,No,No,Adele J. Vandenburgh,,,,Herman H. Vandenburgh,,4013318500,HERMAN_VANDENBURGH@BROWN.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Cell Cures' technology utilizes easily isolated and well characterized adult human skeletal muscle stem cells (satellite cells or myoblasts). These striated muscle progenitor cells provide an expandable source of prolif
erating cells which have already been utilized in numerous clinical trials. While the injection of the proliferating myoblasts has proven clinically safe in hundreds of adult patients, their survival and contractile function following transplantation into
skeletal or cardiac muscle tissue has been severely limited due to poor cell survival and limited differentiation. The overall goal of this SBIR Phase 1 project is to develop a more effective method for the implantation of striated muscle cells for muscle
repair applications. Human progenitor myoblasts can be partially differentiated in vitro into organized muscle tissue containing immature multinucleated post mitotic neonatal-like muscle fibers called 'myotubes'. The bioengineered construct, called a human
'bioartificial muscle' (HBAM), contains myotubes of small diameter (5-10 fm) which are poorly striated, and when electrically stimulated, generate active forces which are only 2-3% of a normal adult muscle. Further differentiation of these immature HBAM m
yotubes into more differentiated and contractile muscle tissue would allow their use in regeneration/repair clinical applications. HBAM myotube to myofiber differentiation will be studied following implantation into the skeletal muscle bed of the immunodef
icient NOD-SCID mouse by analyzing myofiber size, striations, sarcomeric protein content, myosin heavy chain isotypes, viscoelastic properties and active force generation. In vivo muscle differentiation will be compared to injected proliferating myoblasts
and to HBAMs maintained in vitro in perfusion bioreactors. Possible innervation of the in vivo human myofibers will be determined by neuromuscular and axonal histological analyses. Vascularization of the implanted tissue will be analyzed histologically. Fi
nally, HBAMs will be implanted into a severely damaged NOD-SCID mouse muscle bed and repair of the host muscle followed over a 30 day period. In these studies, a subgroup of HBAMs genetically engineered to locally secrete the anabolic muscle growth factor
insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) will be implanted. It is hypothesized that the local in vivo muscle bed will provide the nutrient, growth factors and mechanical environment for the further differentiation of skeletal muscle into a functional tissue cap
able of repairing damaged muscle tissue. The results of these studies will establish an improved protocol for implanting striated muscle precursor cells for the functional repair of damaged or diseased contractile tissues, and provide the basis for a large
animal SBIR Phase 2 preclinical study. Musculoskeletal disorders affect greater than 60 million individuals in the U.S. today and the annual health care costs resulting from skeletal muscle weakness resulting from disease or aging is hundreds of billions
of dollars. Few drugs are currently available to treat these disorders and CellCure, Inc. is developing a cell-based implantation technology using bioengineered muscle tissue for both muscle damage repair and to attenuate skeletal muscle weakness which occ
urs from the muscle loss associated with aging."
Network Visualization and Statistical Analysis Toolkit,N00014-06-M-0088,DOD,OSD,SBIR,2006,1,99980.00,"ALIDADE, INC.",31 Bridge Street,,Newport,RI,02840,No,No,No,Jeffrey Cares,"President, CEO",4013670040,jeff.cares@alidade.net,Jeffrey Cares,"President, CEO",4013670040,jeff.cares@alidade.net,"The overall objective of this effort is to address a nagging void in the study of Information Age Warfare: there is no coherent set of tools that military analysts can use to visualize, measure, understand and asses networked military systems. While there has been a great deal of effort expended to develop tools in academia (and to a limited extent for commercial business), these products tend to be one-off, stove-piped computer routines that are not platform independent, have dissimilar input and output data structures, usually require advanced mathematical training or are not tailored to provide answers to the types of questions that warfare analysts might ask. Phase I of this effort will research and design a network visualization and statistical analysis tool for development in Phase II, if awarded."
3-D Woven Conformal Antenna Structures,FA8650-06-C-3609,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2006,2,749998.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,Michael A. Deaett,Principal Engineer,4012950062,miked@appliedradar.com,"New missions require that airborne radars operate at increasing ranges with higher target resolution. This combination necessitates the cost-effective deployment of large apertures while maintaining aerodynamic performance. Externally mounted antenna arrays are not a satisfactory solution due to the large size at low frequencies, for example with UHF foliage penetration radar. Another approach employs copper-on-Kaptonr (or RF-on-flex) circuits adhered to composite airframe wings and fuselages. However, Kaptonr does not bond well to composites and requires delicate surface treatments that disrupt the manufacturing process while introducing delamination risks. We propose an alternate structurally-integrated conformal antenna approach employing 3D woven sheets of conductive fibers incorporating microwave array structures and through-layer structural reinforcements in a single co-cured structure. Impact resistance, fatigue tolerance and shear load carrying capability are improved with manufacturing compatible processes while overall airframe loads are reduced. The proposed work will demonstrate advanced structurally-integrated conductive fiber antenna technology and transition this technology to an airframe with the cooperation of our transition partner. During Phase I, we constructed a canonical microwave antenna using conductive fiber stitched preforms and epoxy resin transfer molding (RTM). We are currently weaving 3D antenna preforms and constructing a ten square foot radiator section for manufacturability studies. In Phase II, we will extend these results by constructing several larger radiator panels and extensively testing the RF and structural performance. With our transition partner, we will transition this technology to the LOBSTAR array on the Air Force's Sensorcraft, and investigate other structurally-integrated antenna applications on fighter and transport aircraft as well as UAVs."
Wideband Digital Beamforming Processor for Multi-Beam Phased Array,W9113M-06-C-0054,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2006,1,99923.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"The objective of the proposed effort is to develop a digital beamforming (DBF) processor capable of generating multiple simultaneous receive beams with a wide (>500 MHz) instantaneous bandwidth (IBW). This would offer a significant improvement over a similar DBF processor with 15 MHz IBW that Applied Radar, Inc. previously developed for AFRL. The wide bandwidth is necessary for a number of high-resolution SAR and GMTI radar applications of interest to MDA. The wideband digital beamforming offers a great deal of flexibility of the radar system, including multiple receive beams, adaptive null and beam steering, and improved performance through dynamic calibration. The DBF processor will be implemented using the latest FPGA technology, which allows for rapid hardware development, with processing implemented in firmware. A plug-and-play architecture allows different analog front-end modules representing different frequency bands to be utilized with a common DBF processor. When combined with the wideband digital T/R modules employing 2 GSPS A/D technology that Applied Radar is currently developing under separate related efforts, this DBF processor offers a significant advancement in radar capability over existing systems."
Waterborne Transport Modeling Capability,HDTRA1-07-C-0012,DOD,DTRA,SBIR,2006,2,353250.00,APPLIED SCIENCE ASSOC.,70 Dean Knauss Dr,,Narragansett,RI,02882,No,No,No,Linda Nolan Gagne,Contracting Officer,4017896224,lnolan@appsci.com,Matthew Ward,Director of Defense Progr,4017896224,wardm@appsci.com,"The proposed Phase II project is to provide an advanced operational waterborne transport modeling capability of chemical agents within four-dimensional marine and fresh water environments. Based upon the findings of Phase I, we propose to further enhance the operational capabilities of ASA's Waterborne Chemical Transport Model, relative to weaponized chemical agents, by developing comprehensive analytical and numerical expressions of the kinetics of chemical agents under the influence of varying environmental parameters characteristic of a waterborne environment and through the development of advanced numerical methods and databases appropriate for an operational environment. The specific weaponized chemical agents to be investigated during this study will be Tabun, Sarin, Soman, Cyclosarin, VX, Distilled Sulfur Mustard, Thickened Tabun, Thickened Soman, Thickened Cyclosarin, Thickened Distilled Sulfur Mustard, and Thickened VX. With such advancements at the conclusion of Phase II the model could find wide use by the DoD, DHS, and industry."
"Pier-Side, Bow Sonar Calibration Methodology for Wave Piercing Hull Forms",N65538-07-M-0051,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2006,1,69998.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David A. Brown,President,4012452282,dbAcoustics@cox.net,David A. Brown,President,4012452282,dbAcoustics@cox.net,"Existing near-field calibration methods for cylindrical MF and HF bow arrays are not easily applied to combatant ships with complex hull forms. The objective of this proposed project is to develop and deliver a cost effective in-situ system for providing sonar transducer acoustic calibration and quality monitoring. The output is a sonar element calibration or verification that will be fed into an array analysis program. The degradation in array performance due to the failure or performance decrease (as might be due to aging, delamination, flooding, shock, etc.) of individual transducer elements will be ultimately predicted with an array performance model. Our proposed method is called the VIP-Delta-Z method and is based on measuring the voltage, current and phase (VIP) of elements within the array to determine the complex admittance or impedance (see ""On the methods of experimental investigating of acoustical interaction between transducers,"" Boris Aronov, J. Acoust. Soc. Am., Published, June 2006). The method involves measuring the mutual radiation impedances between elements in the array, which will permit a self calibration and monitoring of changes to the impedances (Delta-Z) as a function of time or different electrical and acoustical loading conditions."
Low Cost 3D Sonar System for Underwater Threat Detection,NBCHC060087,DHS,DHS,SBIR,2006,2,823125.00,"FarSounder, Inc.",95 Hathaway Center,Suite 5,Providence,RI,02907 0377,No,No,No,Cheryl M. Zimmerman,President and CEO,4017846700,cheryl.zimmerman@farsounder.com,Matthew J. Zimmerman,VP Engineering,4017846700,matthew.zimmerman@farsounder.com,"FarSounder proposes to develop a low cost 3D sonar system for underwater threat detection. This system will be based on the FarSounder 3D sonar technology and will utilize COTS components which will leverage FarSounder`s advanced processing techniques to increase the system`s performance when compared to currently available port security sonars. For this Phase I effort FarSounder will perform a feasibility study and develop a concept design for the 3D Underwater Threat system. Phase II will deliver a prototype low cost, low power, small size system for incorporation into a multifaceted Port Security System. The ultimate commercialized system will be easy to use, easy to deploy, have a low false alarm and fall within the goal of less than $100K per 1000 feet of protected asset. The system will have the ability to detect open circuit divers, closed circuit divers, divers with propulsion assistance and underwater vehicles that approach or enter the security zone and provide an alert to a central station or system operator. FarSounder`s solution will have a high probability of detection of real underwater threats and a low false alarm rate for these targets. Through simulation, field testing with existing hardware and acoustic modeling, FarSounder will validate the key elements of the design. Phase I objectives are to develop a solution concept with effective performance and end usability in mind; demonstrate that shallow water detection of targets in 3D is possible; demonstrate that detection of swimmer size targets is possible with FarSounder`s 3D approach; study feasibility of target classification and identification; and develop a hardware architecture that utilizes all COTS components to ensure affordable future product costs. Benefits include increased protection of ports, critical waterside infrastructures and other fixed shoreline sites and prevention of attacks affecting large areas of local populations such as those near LNG terminals. The system will provide the first underwater port security system practical for use in all US ports and along extensive areas of US coastlines and inland waterways. Spinoff commercial applications include a solution for the protection of endangered marine mammals, by enabling effective localization, identification and avoidance of these mammals; a cost efficient localization and identification sonar appropriate for the $3.2B annual US fisheries industry to reduce bycatch ; and a lowcost Onboard security sonar system for commercial cargo ships, oil tankers, passenger vessels and large recreational boats."
Signal Processing For Dense Fields Of Miniature Impulsive Sources And Sonobuoy Receivers,N68335-06-C-0276,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2006,1,80000.00,"MARINE ACOUSTICS, INC.",809 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,William T. White,Contracts Manager,4018477508,bill.white@marineacoustics.com,James A. Messegee,Supervisory Engineer,7034658404,jim.messegee@marineacoustics.com,"Marine Acoustics, Inc., will design and develop a sonar screening, detection, and classification system using a MATLAB-based format. Existing software components such as a cepstrum-based screener and a wavelet-based signal processing algorithm, as well as new components to be designed, will be incorporated into the system. Results will be fed to a field display and analysis system. Results will reduce active clutter and improve results to be obtained from high-energy impulsive sources.BENEFITS: The result of the Phase I SBIR will be a modular software research system and selected data bases to identify the highest payoff approaches with a plan of action and milestones needed to realize a viable and robust signal processing system for all air ASW vehicles. The helicopter and the UAV, due to limited crew-members are most dependent on a robust detection and classification system to assist the acoustic operator."
Engineered human lgG1 for delivery of IDDM self-epitopes,1R43DK070387-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2006,1,210000.00,"MULTICELL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.","MULTICELL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.",701 GEORGE WASHIGNTON HIGHWAY,LINCOLN,RI,02865,No,No,No,Lucille Gomes,,4013330610,lgomes@multicelltech.com,William J. Phillips,,8584553898,BPHILLIPS@MIXTURESCIENCES.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus is an autoimmune disease characterized by T cell attack of pancreatic islet cells leading to irreversible loss of the insulin secreting cells. One potential strategy for combatting the autoimmune process involves the initiation of tolerigenic processes that act to tone down or turn off the ongoing cell destruction. A number of T cell self-epitopes have been identified that correlate with the autoimmune process, and this has led to both a better understanding of the genetic component of Type 1 diabetes (T1DM) as well as the attempt to use these self-epitope peptides to specifically target the attacking T cells. To date, the use of the epitope peptide strategy for tolerization has been disappointing due in large part to the problem of delivering the epitope peptides efficaciously. Alliance Pharmaceutical Corp through its susidiary Astral Inc., and colleagues have developed a method for delivering specific epitope peptides to APC through the use of engineered IgG molecules. This strategy has been shown to be highly efficacious in murine autoimmune model systems, most notably the EAE multiple sclerosis model and the NOD mouse model. In recent work it has been shown that 70% of NOD mice on the verge of full blown diabetes can be rescued to normal glycemia using this epitope delivery strategy. We believe that that the bulk of the animal model data generated to date strongly support the transitioning of this technology to human therapeutics. Toward the goal of testing this strategy in human patients an engineered hlgG1 (IgGIN) has been produced. IgGIN carries two Type 1 diabetes-related epitopes: GAD271-285 and insulin9-23. The specific aims of this grant proposal target the initial physical and immunological characterization of IgGIN. Phase 2 of this project will involve scaled-up production of clinical grade IgGIN for toxicology and Phase 1 clinical testing ."
SBIR Phase I: Physiologic High Throughput Screening of Bioengineered Tissues,0610721,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2006,1,99991.00,"MYOMICS, INC.","MYOMICS, INC.",148 West River Street,PROVIDENCE,RI,02904 2615,No,No,No,Victoria Barbata,,4018619770,vbarbata@myomics.com,Herman Vandenburgh,Dr,4018619770,hvandenburgh@myomics.com,"The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop an innovative high-throughput/ high content drug screening platform utilizing three-dimensional human skeletal muscle tissue constructs which mimic in vivo skeletal muscle to quantify muscle force generation. The proposed drug testing platform will contribute to significant reductions in time and costs associated with bringing new drugs to market by discovering drug candidates and eliminating ineffective compounds earlier than currently possible. Converging biological systems (in vitro human muscle analogs) with optomechanics (sensors capable of monitoring muscle contractility) enables a novel and powerful drug testing platform. Unlike existing systems, this research incorporates biomechanics into drug discovery by using mechanical sensors to detect contraction of multiple identical tissue samples over extended time periods. This interdisciplinary approach employs mechanical/electrical engineering and biological aspects, providing an early means of separating prospective muscle drug candidates from those likely to fail in humans.
This research will impact muscle contractility disorder/disease research, the pharmaceutical industry, and the biotechnology industry. Significant demands exist for new drugs treating contractility disorders involving skeletal muscle. Significant socioeconomic and quality-of-life impacts will result for patients with contractility disorders, i.e., sarcopenia, atrophy or Duchennes muscular dystrophy. Upon successful development, the sensing mechanism will potentially be used to test several contractile tissues relevant to a range of important human contractile disorders and diseases."
Electro-Mechanical Micro-Post Array to Detect In Vitro Muscle Contraction,1R41AR053386-01A1,HHS,HHS,STTR,2006,1,99939.00,"MYOMICS, INC.","MYOMICS, INC.",148 West River Street,PROVIDENCE,RI,02904 2615,No,No,No,Miss barbata,,4018639770,vbarbata@myomics.com,Herman H. Vandenburgh,,4013318500,HERMAN_VANDENBURGH@BROWN.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Myomics? technology to be developed in this Phase 1 project is based upon an in vitro skeletal muscle tissue force measurement technique for high throughput screening (HTS) of compounds to attenuate muscle weakness. The technology, termed Patterned Micro-Post-Arrays (P-fPA), is comprised of bioengineered skeletal muscle tissue attached to micro-mechanical sensors in a ninety-six well format to detect muscle contractile forces. Miniature human BioArtificial Muscles (mBAMs) are three-dimensional (3-D) contractile tissues with organized striated skeletal muscle fibers which can generate directed force when electrically stimulated. Myomics? mBAM tissue/sensor composite is well suited for repetitive nondestructive force measurements long term i.e. weeks; the sensors provide physiological data regarding tissue function in response to a drug. Such long term studies can determine cumulative effects of drugs on 3-D tissues which are not apparent in shorter term single cell or monolayer HTS technologies. mBAMs have been successfully engineered to grow within the sensors and generate force using P-fPA prototypes. The purpose of this project is to expand these preliminary studies into reproducible quantitative muscle force measurements for up to 30 days. Briefly, Myomics will (1) determine the optimal micro-post geometry for measuring mBAM passive and active contractile forces; (2) test P-fPA with mBAMs chemically stimulated to contract; (3) incorporate in-plane electrodes into the P-fPA technology; and (4) test P-fPA with mBAMs electrically stimulated to contract. With Myomics? P-fPA technology, the physiological measurement of force generation by mBAMs will not be limited to any particular known biochemical pathway and the measurement of force will be the result of both positive and negative drug effects. Thus, the technology will not only screen compounds for positive muscle growth effects, but will more rapidly eliminate target compounds with adverse side effects. This will lead to a greater chance of success in follow-up preclinical animal and Phase 1 clinical studies. Musculoskeletal disorders affect greater than 60 million individuals in the U.S. today and the annual health care costs resulting from skeletal muscle weakness is hundreds of billions of dollars. Few drugs are currently available to treat these disorders and Myomics? high throughput drug screening technology using bioengineered muscle tissue is aimed at identifying new drugs candidates to attenuate skeletal muscle weakness including the sarcopenia associated with aging."
An Internet-Based Program for the Reduction and Prevention of High-Risk Drinking,1R43AA016245-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2006,1,140611.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4018744100,,Andrea L. Paiva,,4018749066,APAIVA@PROCHANGE.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The U.S. Surgeon General and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services identified heavy drinking among college students as a major public health problem. Existing interventions generally provide alcohol education focusing on skills building, rather than tailored individualized behavior change. Harm reduction programs that do focus on behavior change have not taken advantage of the Internet, a widely used, low- cost, and effective delivery channel for health promotion. In addition, there is a lack of tailored, population- based interventions for students who have not started drinking at high-risk levels. This Phase I research proposes the development of an innovative, efficacious, and cost-effective Internet-based program that is intended to reduce high-risk drinking among college students who have already begun drinking at dangerous levels; prevent students who do not currently drink at dangerous levels from beginning to do so, based on their level of risk; and promote effective behavioral strategies to reduce alcohol-related harm in colleges. This evidence-based, individualized, interactive program based on the Transtheoretical Model (TTM) and delivered by colleges to their students via the Internet or Intranet, can have substantial impacts on alcohol consumption and problems. There are several reasons for colleges to purchase this program. Market research has found that colleges want self-guided interventions that do not require active faculty participation. The program is also cost-effective, confidential, and easy to use so that the buyer does not handle data collection, storage or administrative tasks. An experienced team of alcohol, TTM, and education researchers will develop TTM measures followed by a pilot intervention created with input from an expert panel and key stakeholders. Experts and focus groups of students and faculty will evaluate the program. Fifty pilot participants will test the usability, feasibility, and acceptability of the program. This research will be supported by resources that have enabled 15 SBIRs that have resulted thus far in 8 commercial products. Relevance: Reducing heavy drinking among college students is a national health priority. This research proposes to develop an innovative, science-based, cost effective, Internet-based intervention to reduce high- risk drinking among college students who are already drinking at dangerous levels, prevent students who are not drinking at high levels from starting, and promote healthy strategies to alcohol-related harm."
Role of Inter-alpha Inhibitors in Anthrax Intoxication,1R41AI062095-01A2,HHS,HHS,STTR,2006,1,1000000.00,"PROTHERA BIOLOGICS, LLC",551 Warren Avenue,,EAST PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Yow-pin Lim,,4013012056,PROTHERA@VERIZON.NET,Steven M. Opal,,4017292545,STEVEN_OPAL@BROWN.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The primary goal of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of utilizing Inter-alpha Inhibitor proteins (lalp) as an effective protective agent against exposure to anthrax, a lethal biological warfare agent. Inter-alpha inhibitor proteins are natural serine protease inhibitors found in relatively high concentration in human plasma. The protein complex has been shown to be important in the inhibition of serine proteases such as trypsin, elastase, plasmin and cathepsin G and has been demonstrated to play a role in immunomodulation of systemic inflammation and sepsis. In our preliminary experiments, lalp enhanced the survival of cells exposed to the lethal toxin and inhibited lethality in the experimental animals challenged with anthrax toxin in the form of protective antigen (PA) and lethal factor (LF). We have obtained evidence that lalp inhibit furin, a key enzyme that activates PA by removing a small 20 kDa fragment at the N-terminal yielding the active subunit PA63. This furin-mediated cleavage of PA is necessary for the assembly of the heptamer which mediates LF entry into the cell. We hypothesize that lalp administration will be beneficial in providing combined protection against anthrax exotoxins and in fighting sepsis which occurs in the late stage of anthrax infection. In this proposed study, we will confirm and expand our initial observations and further explore the feasibility of using the active bikunin subunit to prevent anthrax toxin induced lethality. We anticipate that these studies will ultimately lead to the development of novel strategies for management of systemic anthrax infection.
Relevance: Anthrax is a lethal weapon of today's bioterrorism. Inter-alpha inhibitor proteins are natural proteins in human blood that inhibit furin, a key factor in blood cells that allows anthrax toxin to attack and destroy cells and cause septic shock, a critical condition with a high rate of death. Our research is focused on the development of a new and safe treatment based on the ability of inter-alpha proteins to prevent the fatal consequences of anthrax infection."
Developing a Remission from Depression Questionnaire,1R43MH074172-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2006,1,103298.00,PSYCH PRODUCTS PRESS,PSYCH PRODUCTS PRESS,BOX 228,EAST GREENWICH,RI,02818,No,No,No,Mark Zimmerman,,4018856746,MZIMMERMAN@LIFESPAN.ORG,Joseph B. Mcglinchey,,4012770705,JOSEPH_MCGLINCHEY@BROWN.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Experts in the treatment of depression have emphasized the importance of striving for remission. Studies have shown that depressed patients who respond to treatment but do not achieve remission, currently defined as a lack of symptoms, continue to experience greater likelihood of continued impairment and future recurrence of depression. However, there is much debate as to how to properly define remission and if the definitions currently used adequately represent the construct. If remission is to be the primary goal of treatment for depression, it is important to use an empirically validated definition. There is also a need to develop tools that can comprehensively assess remission yet be feasibly administered by clinicians in their clinical practice to identify remitted patients. The goal of this Phase I project is to develop an instrument, the Remission from Depression Questionnaire (RDQ) that will provide a multi-faceted assessment of remission from major depressive disorder (MOD). This is in contrast to current definitions of remission that rely exclusively on symptom-based indices. The specific aims of Phase I of the current project are: to generate content rendering a more comprehensive representation of factors related to remission through the use of both patient- and clinician-based focus groups; to use the content generated in the groups towards the composition of preliminary items for the RDQ; to assess the relevance and comprehensibility of preliminary items among patients with depression, modifying items based on patient feedback; to assess the practicality of using the scale in clinical practice; and to examine the comparative relevance of the scale in addressing patient goals relative to the most commonly used self-report, symptom-based measure of depression. At the completion of Phase I we will have developed a comprehensive, understandable measure of remission from depression that is practical to use in clinical practice. Phase II will concern a more rigorous examination of the validity and psychometric properties of the RDQ and will establish the prognostic and incremental validity of the measure over existing symptom-based definitions of remission."
Functional Health CAT in Chronic Kidney Disease,2R44DK062555-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2006,2,1435147.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,Edward Gildea,,4013348800,EGILDEA@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,John E. Ware,,4013348800,JWARE@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): We propose to apply item response theory (IRT) and computerized adaptive testing (CAT) to achieve major advances in the standardization of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) health-related quality of life (HRQOL) metrics, in the efficiency of data collection and processing technologies, and in the usefulness of clinician and patient reports. In contrast to static instruments, which ask all respondents the same questions regardless of their answers and lack the precision to detect changes over a wide range of severity levels, we will use Dynamic Health Assessment (DYNHA) software to match questions to each patient's score and to the requirements of each application to achieve more practical and more useful assessments. In our Phase I test among hemodialysis patients, a prototype CKD-CAT application achieved comparable CAT scores and equivalent or better precision with substantial reductions in respondent burden compared to three full-length static scales (Effects of Kidney Disease, Sleep Functioning, and Bodily Pain) including items from the Kidney Disease Quality Of Life Questionnaire (KDQOL). Shortcomings of our approach were also identified: (a) the need for additional questionnaire item development, (b) limitations of sampling only hemodialysis patients to represent a wide range of CKD severity levels, and (c) problems with the interface between patients and data collection technologies. To address these concerns as well as meet the needs for assessment tools and software that are applicable across a wider range of disease severity levels, we propose a Phase II effort that matches samples and intensity/expense of data collection to the distinct requirements of each of the following aims: (1) Expand the item pool and evaluate the appropriateness of new items for CKD-specific applications; (2) Identify the most useful and feasible domains and calibrate their items by collecting and analyzing responses from large samples of adults varying across stages of CKD (Stages 3-5); (3) Create a fully operational CKD-CAT system and evaluate its performance through ""real data"" simulation studies, to determine reliability and clinical validity and the potential for reductions in respondent burden, in comparison with full-length forms; and (4) Confirm the administrative feasibility, patient acceptance, reliability and validity of scores, and the usefulness of clinician and patient reports from actual CKD-CAT administrations to patients (CKD Stages 3-5) sampled and assessed in clinical and in non-clinical settings. By greatly shortening surveys and lowering the costs of administering them, it will be possible to monitor the quality of life effects of CKD more accurately for more patients and help clinicians and patients better understand and communicate about treatment success."
Computerized Adaptive Assessment of Headache Impact,2R44NS047763-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2006,2,1072787.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,Edward Gildea,,4013348800,EGILDEA@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,Jakob B. Bjorner,,4013348800,JBJORNER@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): We propose a tool for evaluating the functional impact of headaches that uses computerized adaptive testing (CAT) to achieve more practical and more precise assessments by matching the questions to each patient's headache severity level. In previous work, we developed a headache impact item bank that improved score precision and validity and provided measurement over a wider range, and we developed cross-calibration procedures that allowed us to directly compare results from CAT and existing headache scales. Items were administered using Dynamic Health Assessment (DYNHA) software to reduce response burden. In Phase I, we developed and piloted a prototype assessment (HEADACHE-CAT) that combines a static generic health- related quality of life (HRQOL) tool with an enhanced headache impact CAT which draws upon an expanded item bank. Results from a pilot test of the HEADACHE-CAT showed that measurement precision and efficiency increased with the larger item bank. Patient participants provided positive feedback on the HEADACHE-CAT and a prototype patient report that guides interpretation of generic HRQOL and headache impact results. The aims for Phase II are to: (1) improve the content validity of the HEADACHE-CAT by enhanced item selection procedures; (2) improve practical usefulness of the HEADACHE-CAT by heuristic evaluation and usability testing; (3) evaluate the responsiveness of the HEADACHE-CAT to changes in the clinical condition over time; (4) develop and evaluate item administation with voice activation for greater accessibility to patients with visual or literacy impairments and evaluate the effects of survey length on patient satisfaction; and (5) finalize a single comprehensive HEADACHE-CAT assessment system that: a) uses item banks for generic HRQOL and headache impact domains, b) has a comprehensive user guide, c) can provide scores in the metric of traditional scales, d) can deliver individual patient and clinician reports, and aggregate-level reports for providers to improve group-level assessment and monitoring efforts. The HEADACHE-CAT assessment tool developed by this project will make screening and routine outcomes monitoring of HRQOL feasible for headache sufferers by greatly lowering data collection costs, respondent burden, and increasing the breadth and precision of measurement."
Mental Health CAT (MH-CAT) for Community-Based Use,1R43MH078460-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2006,1,102998.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,John Ware,,4013348800,JWARE@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,Matthias S. Rose,,4013348800,MROSE@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Mental disorders are among the most prevalent conditions in the United States, and their burden for the individual and the society is tremendous. Nevertheless, they are still widely under-diagnosed in community based health care systems. One way to help general practitioners (GP) identify and monitor mental health problems is to use self-administered patient questionnaires; however, the instruments that are currently available are either very lengthy or lack the measurement precision sought for individual decision making, and results from different tools are hardly comparable. The advent of computer adaptive testing (CAT) methods promises to solve these problems, but to facilitate their wide-spread use in clinical practice, appropriate software solutions must be developed and constantly supported. We propose to build a Mental Health CAT (MH-CAT) as part of a comprehensive software solution suitable for daily use in community-based settings. The MH-CAT will be a highly sensitive, easy-to-use first stage screening tool to help GPs identify and monitor patients in need of special mental health care services. The MH-CAT will be downward comparable to two of the most frequently-used fixed-length questionnaires (i.e., the CES-D and the MHI-5, representing one scale of the SF-36). To avoid floor effects and to make the tool meaningful for patients with and without mental health problems, we will include items measuring disease specific symptoms, as well as positive mental health states. In Phase I we propose to: (1) construct an item bank covering a bipolar euthymic-depressive symptoms continuum; (2) develop a comprehensive and flexible CAT software solution, including a physician report; (3) provide a cross-calibration approach to compare scores between the MH-CAT, MHI-5 and CES-D; and (4) demonstrate the usability of our CAT software in a field test in a community-based setting. To achieve these aims, we will use methods based on item response theory (IRT) to evaluate existing data sources of 13,547 patients and 256 different items from QualityMetric and RAND Corporation, as well as data from 60 patients included in the field test. In Phase II, we will test the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the MH-CAT compared with static questionnaires, extend the measurement to assess further mental health constructs (anxiety, distress, cognitive impairment), include additional features (i.e., assessment of treatment side-effects) to facilitate integration and widespread application of the tool, and test the impact of using the instrument."
Computer Adaptive Test for Patients with Heart Failure,1R43HL083622-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2006,1,137540.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,Diane Turner-bowker,,4013348800,DTBOWKER@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,Matthias S. Rose,,4013348800,MROSE@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Our objective is to achieve a major advance in the technology used to assess patient reported outcomes in heart failure (HF). Numerous questionnaires currently are being used to measure outcomes of HF patients, but scores from these instruments can not be directly compared. In addition, no single fixed-length form can achieve the breath and precision of measurement needed to monitor individual patients, and yet still be practical for clinical use. To address these deficiencies, the Aims of Phase I are: (1) to develop a prototype Computer Adaptive Test (HF-CAT) to measure the cardinal subjective symptoms of heart failure (dyspnea, fatigue and physical function); (2) to develop a cross-calibration-approach to explore the possibility of comparing disease-specific static questionnaires (Chronic Heart Failure, Minnesota Living with Heart Failure, and Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire); and (3) to evaluate the feasibility of a HF-CAT. We will collect data via the internet from 1,500 HF patients, who will answer the instruments mentioned above, two dyspnea questionnaires, and the vitality and physical functioning scale from the SF- 36. Item Response Theory methods will be applied to estimate item parameters to extend existing item banks for fatigue and physical functioning and to build a new item bank for dyspnea. These item banks will serve as a basis for the HF-CAT and will enable us to explore the possibility of comparing results between questionnaires. We will evaluate measurement precision and respondent burden in two simulation studies, and evaluate the feasibility of the HF-CAT in a study with 100 HF patients at the Montefiore Medical Center. Phase I will produce a prototype version of the HF-CAT with preliminary evidence of its acceptance by patients and a better understanding of the shared concepts of widely-used HF questionnaires. We expect the HF-CAT will provide enhanced measurement precision over a wide scale range without added respondent burden. Enhanced measurement precision is a desired feature for psychometric instruments, to improve response detection and risk prediction. In Phase II, we will include additional items, examine the responsiveness of the HF-CAT, and conduct clinical field studies to evaluate the tool's ability to predict deterioration of HF and health care utilization. The final goal will be to have a comprehensive practical tool available to improve patient centered care and life expectancy of patients with heart failure. Public Heath Relevance: Within this project we will develop a computer adaptive test which will measure the subjective symptoms of heart failure more precisely and with less respondent burden. This may help high risk heart failure patients get appropriate treatment earlier to prevent deterioration and hospitalization."
Sonobuoy - Electronic Function Selector (EFS) Replacement,N68335-06-C-0294,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2006,1,78192.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,David V. Miller,President,4018472260,dmiller@seacorp.com,Scott Smith,Business Area Manager,8604450348,ssmith@seacorp.com,"Present sonobuoys allow for the selection of functions such as RF Channel, Depth, etc. by use of a single selector button and LED display along with a second button used for verification located on the side of the sonobuoy. Selection or verification requires access to the buttons and cannot be accomplished once the sonobuoy is loaded into the launcher. The capability to select and verify functions using a wireless, battery-operated, handheld device useable in low light conditions that can interface to a standard personal computer (PC) has been deemed desirable for future sonobuoys by NAVAIR. Additionally, this capability should be adaptable to the multi-mission maritime aircraft (MMA) so that programming and verification can be accomplished via direct interface with the mission computer while the sonobuoy is in the launcher and while the aircraft is in flight. SEA CORP will investigate the application of innovative technologies to accomplishing wireless programming via a handheld device. The SEA CORP solution will address specific requirements for battery-powered and low light capability. It will cost under $200 and provide PC interface with adaptability to the MMA. Reliability and the ability to operate in various environments are key factors that will be addressed. BENEFITS: Existing sonobuoys with operator-select functionality require presets to be selected prior to tube-loading by a technician. Once these presets are selected at the sonobuoy, an additional step is required to communicate these selections to the on-board flight crew. The flight crew then must input these presets into the launch control software. The ability to program the sonobuoy with a handheld device and to download these presets directly into the MMA mission computer eliminates significant potential for miscommunication. Further, having the option of altering these presets while the sonobuoy is in the launch tube provides the option of ensuring the sonobuoy is properly set to take advantage of the prevailing oceanographic acoustic environment. The ability to maintain the tactical advantage in any given oceanographic environment is the primary factor in maintenance of supremacy in the undersea battlespace."
Innovative Lightweight Metal-Air Cell Cases for Non-Rechargeable Batteries,N00164-06-C-6043,DOD,OSD,SBIR,2006,1,99826.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,Chief Operating Officer,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arthur Dobley,Research Scientist,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"Some of the challenges of manufacturing batteries for military applications are: low quantities, sporadic demand, high price and various power sources. If a Multi-Functional Cell Case for Metal-Air Batteries, such as Lithium-Air, Aluminum-Air, and Zinc-Air could be created, then it would be possible to reduce cost, increase energy density and possibly allow the automation of the assembly process to further reduce cost. Molded cell cases allow for the production of any quantity of product at reasonable costs. Most of the metal-air chemistries have reached their maximum energy with current materials. The limiting factor is the weight of the cell case. Yardney's new concept of one lightweight plastic case design that is capable of producing cell cases for several types of metal-air batteries attacks this specific problem. These innovative cases are suitable for quick automated assembly. In this Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project, Yardney proposes to investigate this design concept using lightweight materials suitable for low cost and quick assembly. These cell cases will provide a high quality and lightweight energy storage device for military applications."
A Phase I Program to Improve Low Temperature Performance of Lithium-Ion Batteries,NNC06CA86C,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2006,1,69744.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,David Harma,Business Official,8605991100,dharma@lithion.com,Thomas Barbarich,Principal Investigator,8605991100,tbarbarich@lithion.com,"Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are attractive candidates for use as power sources in aerospace applications because they have high specific energy ( up to 200 Wh/kg) and energy density ( 500 Wh/L) and long cycle life (1,000 ? 30,000 cycles currently depending on the depth of cycling). However, at temperatures below about ?10oC, their charge/discharge performance is severely degraded which hinders their use in deep space and planetary missions. This decrease in performance may be due to the precipitation of ethylene carbonate (EC) at low temperatures, which may prevent the migration of Li+ ions between the electrodes during charge and discharge. We propose to determine the cause of the EC precipitation. Appropriate electrolyte systems will be designed to prevent phase separation of the electrolyte at low temperatures during charge and discharge."
Lithium-Air / Lithium-Ion Hybrid Battery for Military Use,W15P7T-07-C-H401,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2006,1,69987.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,Chief Operating Officer,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arthur Dobley,Research Scientist,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"This SBIR Phase I effort will be to construct and evaluate a high specific energy and high power lithium-air/ lithium-ion hybrid battery system. One of the challenges of incorporating metal-air batteries into existing equipment is the power requirements. Metal-air systems are typically very high in energy density but low in power. A method to overcome the power issue to is to use a hybrid battery composed of the metal-air battery with another battery capable of high power discharges. Yardney has obtained extensive experience in lithium-ion batteries for military and aerospace applications. We also have an advanced lithium-air program with the first ever, large prototype non-aqueous lithium-air cell. We specialize in lightweight batteries used in aerospace applications. We also research, develop, and sell high energy density metal-air batteries. Yardney will research and develop a hybrid Lithium-Air / Lithium-Ion Battery by building and discharging the hybrid batteries with different system configurations. This research will eventually lead to a hybrid system delivering a specific energy greater than 1000 Wh/kg."
New and Improved Nonaqueous Electrolyte Components - Salts and Solvents,W911QX-07-C-0026,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2006,1,69994.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,Chief Operating Officer,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joseph Gnanaraj,Research Scientist,8605991100,joeg@lithion.com,"Lithium-ion batteries have been widely used and intensely investigated for the last decade. However, commercial cells have several problems including loss of power and capacity upon storage or prolonged use at elevated temperatures. In order to develop high-energy power sources for Army applications the operating temperature range must be expanded. Lithion has been investigating a class of compounds that show promise in stabilizing the highly conducting LiPF6 solutions upon elevated temperature exposure. We propose to further expand upon our studies of these additives, other previously reported thermal stabilizing additives, and low temperature enhancing co-solvents in cells to develop advanced liquid electrolytes capable of expanding the operating temperature range for Lithium-ion batteries."
Advanced Fluoropolymer Vessels for Ultra-Clean Ionization and Scintillation Detectors,DE-FG02-04ER83903,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2005,2,650000.00,"Applied Plastics Technology, Inc.",45 Broad Common Road,P.O. Box 45,Bristol,RI,02809,Yes,No,No,Andrew K. MacIntyre,Mr.,4012530200,andy.macintyre@ptfeparts.com,David L. Woisard,Mr.,4012530200,david.woisard@ptfeparts.com,"75336S A broad category of experiments in astro-particle and high energy physics requires the construction of ultra-high-purity and ultra-low-radioactive-background, cubic-meter-scale vessels to be used as containers for ionization and scintillation media. Double-beta decay experiments, solar neutrino experiments, and dark matter searches would all benefit from this technology. Plastics are among the materials with lowest radioactive contaminations, but they are usually not considered suitable because of their modest range of operating temperatures and their outgassing properties. This project will develop vessels made from high purity fluoropolymers, addressing the common problems of thermal expansion and stability at extreme temperatures, and vacuum/pressure sealing and plumbing, while maintaining ultra-low radioactivity properties. In particular, modified polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) sintering and sealing process methods will be developed, leading to the production a 67 liter chamber for the Enriched Xenon Observatory (EXO). In Phase I, PTFE welding techniques were developed both for sealing the chamber and for attaching plumbing and adapter fittings; a technique was developed that successfully fused the chamber material while maintaining an interior temperature low enough to avoid damaging the drift cell components installed inside; and the chamber was installed at the EXO laboratory at Stanford University. Phase II will fabricate a larger prototype chamber for the EXO Project, and also develop PTFE welding techniques for thicker container wall sections. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The processing methods developed to fabricate the modified PTFE chamber should have application to semiconductor processing and chemical handling components, bio-reactors and other high purity bio-pharmaceutical labware, and medical devices. The ultra-low radioactive background properties may have use national security applications. The molding, sintering, and welding techniques should have uses in high purity applications that now utilize conventional compression molding processes."
Active RF Circulators,W31P4Q-06-C-0076,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2005,1,98986.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"Applied Radar Inc. proposes the development of active MMIC-based circulators in order to achieve high isolation between transmit and receive paths for simultaneous transmit and receive (STAR) phased-array radar system architectures. This technology will enable increased persistence in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) systems and allow multiple simultaneous radar modes including SAR, GMTI and AMTI. The different pulse widths required by these various radar modes often precludes simultaneous multi-mode radar operation. Previous work in active MMIC circulators in the early 1990's demonstrated the concept of active circulator, but did not achieve the required performance. Recent advances in chip-level RF modeling, advances in device processes and new materials such as SiGe, GaN, and SiC show promise of achieving an active circulator with up to 40 dB of T/R isolation with less than 0.5 dB of loss, while handling 1 Watt or more of CW power. There is also a growing trend towards the integration of multiple RF components in a single chip. The development of a high-performance MMIC-based circulator will enable system-on-a-chip architectures, enabling increased phased-array functionality, while reducing size and cost."
3-D Woven Conformal Antenna Structures,FA8650-05-M-3543,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2005,1,99973.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President/CEO,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"Applied Radar proposes to investigate a new method of incorporating microwave antenna and feed components directly into airframe structural members. This method is based on the 3-D weaving of a resin transfer molded (RTM) fiber reinforcement preform that meets both RF and structural requirements. The result will be lighter weight, higher performance radar and communications antenna arrays for both fighter and reconnaissance aircraft in the frequency bands from 30 MHz to 3 GHz and possibly above. We will build on three years of conductive fiber experience and patent pending processes to produce a functioning benchmark prototype that incorporates RF transparent quartz fiber windows, carbon fiber structural fibers for structural performance and interwoven highly conductive fibers. We will then work with our team members to convert our antenna design into a 3-D woven preform and then into a finished RTM antenna part. This structural composite antenna will then be tested for RF and mechanical performance. During Phase II the benchmark antenna will be scaled into a functioning antenna array prototype design that will demonstrate both RF and structural performance to airframe standards."
Waterborne Transport Modeling Capability,HDTRA1-05-P-0113,DOD,DTRA,SBIR,2005,1,90755.00,APPLIED SCIENCE ASSOC.,70 Dean Knauss Dr,,Narragansett,RI,02882,No,No,No,Linda Nolan-Gagne,Contracting Officer,4017896224,lnolan@appsci.com,Matthew C. Ward,Senior Engineer,4017896224,wardm@appsci.com,"The Defense Threat Reduction Agency has expressed the need for waterborne transport and dispersion capability to compliment its existing models for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) releases. DTRA's current capability is limited to the atmospheric transport of CBRN agents using the HPAC system. The objective of this proposed Phase I study is to couple Applied Science Associates (ASA) waterborne chemical transport and dispersion model, in a two-dimensional mode, with the HPAC system as a feasibility assessment for future complete integration of the modeling systems. An integration effort is proposed. Algorithm development is not needed due to ASA's existing operational waterborne chemical dispersion modeling capability. In addition, DTRA has advised that the source code for the HPAC system will not be available during Phase I of the project; hence the integration effort will focus on data access and sharing between ASA's CHEMMAP system and DTRA's HPAC system. Maintaining individual systems at this stage is also necessary since HPAC does not provide access to oceanographic information such as currents, temperature and salinity which are of critical importance to the transport of chemicals in marine and freshwater environments."
Naval Device Applications of Relaxor Piezoelectric Single Crystals,N00014-05-C-0033,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2005,2,481003.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David A. Brown,President,4012452282,dbAcoustics@cox.net,David A. Brown,Director of Research,4012452282,dbAcoustics@cox.net,"This project is the development of a single crystal underwater acoustic modem transducer for Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV) which is compact in size, operates at low to moderately low center frequencies, in a broad band frequency range to accommodate state-of-the-art binary, FSK and spread spectrum signaling schemes that promote covertness. The device exploits the high coupling coefficient and low sound speed of single crystal piezoelectric materials and provides operation with high efficiency, broad bandwidth having high power factor, and is in a compact form-factor that minimizes the impact of unwanted hydrodynamic drag."
"A Genome-Derived, Epitope-Driven H. Pylori Vaccine",1R43AI065036-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2005,1,609910.00,"EPIVAX, INC.",146 CLIFFORD STREET,,PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Ronita Fisher,,4012722123,FISHERR@EPIVAX.COM,Anne S. Degroot,,4012722123,annied@epivax.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): EpiVax discovers and develops epitqpe-driven vaccines by screening microbial genomes for protective epitopes. In this application, we describe a genome-based approach for the development of a therapeutic vaccine against Helicobacter pylori disease. First, the H. pylori genome will be scanned for immunodominant Th epitopes by computer-driven (EpiMatrix) analysis. Candidate Th epitopes will be selected based on class II MHC allele restriction and clustering (promiscuity). Epitopes derived from antigens previously shown in vivo as protective (e.g., enzymes, porins, adhesins, heat shock proteins), as well as novel epitopes from proteins not previously implicated in protection will be further sorted on the basis of strain conservation (> 95%), in vivo expression in human and murine gastric tissue, and display of minimal ("
Novel Smallpox Vaccine Derived from VV/VAR Immunome,1R43AI058376-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2005,1,1027407.00,"EPIVAX, INC.",146 CLIFFORD STREET,,PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Ronita Fisher,,4012722123,FISHERR@EPIVAX.COM,Anne S. Degroot,,4012722123,annied@epivax.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): EpiVax specializes in the development of epitope-driven vaccines by screening whole genomes for candidate vaccine components. In this application, we propose to develop a safe, new smallpox vaccine based on epitopes conserved between the vaccinia virus (VV) and Variola (VAR) 'immunomes' that could be used as both a prophylactic and a therapeutic intervention in the event of a bioterrorist attack. First, peptide sequences that are conserved between the vaccinia virus (W) and Variola (Var) genomes will be screened for immunodominant epitopes by computer-driven (EpiMatrix) analysis and confirmed using T cells from VV-immunized individuals. Second, selected epitopes will then be aligned and cloned into DNA vaccine vectors optimized for strong and sustained expression in vivo. Third, we will vaccinate HLA-transgenic mice with the DNA vaccine constructs, measuring de novo immune responses to the DNA vaccine constructs using intracellular cytokine flow cytometry. EpiVax will be responsible for selecting the VV/Var epitopes and managing the project. The TB/HIV Research Lab at Brown University (subcontractor) will perform binding assays and develop the oligonucleotide multi-epitope constructs consisting of strings of the selected epitopes. Dr. Crowe's laboratory (subcontractor, Vanderbilt University) will perform ELISpot assays. Dr. Weiner (subcontractor, Stellar Chance Laboratories, University of Pennsylvania) will perform the vaccination studies. The final product of Phase I will be an evaluation of the immunogenicity and protective effect of several prototype smallpox vaccine constructs in HLA transgenic mice. In Phase II we would screen additional epitopes, build the final vaccine constructs, optimize the immunogenicity of the final vaccine constructs with adjuvants and delivery vehicles, and address the safety, toxicity and immunogenicity of the constructs in human subjects."
Low Cost 3D Sonar System for Underwater Threat Detection,NBCHC050132,DHS,DHS,SBIR,2005,1,99940.00,"FarSounder, Inc.",95 Hathaway Center,Suite 5,Providence,RI,02907 0377,No,No,No,Cheryl Zimmerman,,4017846700,cheryl.zimmerman@farsounder.com,Matthew Zimmerman,,4017846700,matthew.zimmerman@farsounder.com,"FarSounder proposes to develop a low cost 3D sonar system for underwater threat detection. This system will be based on the FarSounder 3D sonar technology and will utilize COTS components which will leverage FarSounder`s advanced processing techniques to increase the system`s performance when compared to currently available port security sonars. For this Phase I effort FarSounder will perform a feasibility study and develop a concept design for the 3D Underwater Threat system. Phase II will deliver a prototype low cost, low power, small size system for incorporation into a multifaceted Port Security System. The ultimate commercialized system will be easy to use, easy to deploy, have a low false alarm and fall within the goal of less than $100K per 1000 feet of protected asset. The system will have the ability to detect open circuit divers, closed circuit divers, divers with propulsion assistance and underwater vehicles that approach or enter the security zone and provide an alert to a central station or system operator. FarSounder`s solution will have a high probability of detection of real underwater threats and a low false alarm rate for these targets. Through simulation, field testing with existing hardware and acoustic modeling, FarSounder will validate the key elements of the design. Phase I objectives are to develop a solution concept with effective performance and end usability in mind; demonstrate that shallow water detection of targets in 3D is possible; demonstrate that detection of swimmer size targets is possible with FarSounder`s 3D approach; study feasibility of target classification and identification; and develop a hardware architecture that utilizes all COTS components to ensure affordable future product costs. Benefits include increased protection of ports, critical waterside infrastructures and other fixed shoreline sites and prevention of attacks affecting large areas of local populations such as those near LNG terminals. The system will provide the first underwater port security system practical for use in all US ports and along extensive areas of US coastlines and inland waterways. Spinoff commercial applications include a solution for the protection of endangered marine mammals, by enabling effective localization, identification and avoidance of these mammals; a cost efficient localization and identification sonar appropriate for the $3.2B annual US fisheries industry to reduce bycatch ; and a lowcost Onboard security sonar system for commercial cargo ships, oil tankers, passenger vessels and large recreational boats."
Development of Environmentally Safe Transgenic Turfgrass with Improved Traits,2005-33610-15620,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2005,1,80000.00,"HybriGene, Inc.",530 Liberty Lane,,West Kingston,RI,02892,No,No,No,Hong Luo,Senior Project Leader,4018749906,hongluo@hybrigene.com,Hong Luo,Senior Project Leader,4018749906,hongluo@hybrigene.com,"Trait improvement of turfgrass through genetic engineering is important to the turfgrass industry and the environment. However, the possibility of transgene escape to wild and non-transformed species raises commercial and ecological concerns. The purpose of this project is to determine the usefulness of genetically engineered male sterility in turfgrass for producing stable, environmentally safe transgenic perennials with enhanced agronomic performance. We have generated male-sterile, herbicide-resistant transgenic creeping bentgrass and demonstrated that transgenes are inherited by and co-segregate in the T1 progeny. We have also demonstrated, under greenhouse conditions, that the male sterility engineered in the transgenic plants is complete and effective in preventing gene flow. In this project, we will evaluate the inheritance of both male sterility and the herbicide resistance by the T2 progeny, and carry out field trail studies using T2 plants to test whether male sterility will provide effective control of transgene escape compared to open pollination and the use of spatial and temporal management systems to minimize gene flow in transgenic turfgrasses."
Light Weight Electronic Pointing Device,W15QKN-06-C-0061,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2005,1,69979.00,"KVH INDUSTRIES, INC.",50 Enterprise Center,,Middletown,RI,02842 5279,No,No,No,Daniel Conway,VP Business Development,4018458112,dconway@kvh.com,James Rossi,Principal Engineer,4018473327,jrossi@kvh.com,"In the proposed Phase I effort, KVH Industries will develop an Electronic Pointing Device (EPD) by implementing Northfinding software in its TG6000 Inertial Measurement Unit(IMU) product that is substantially smaller than the existing solution. Specifically, KVH will build three modified coils into a standard TG6000 system, modify the existing gyro digital filter to reduce noise, implement Northfinding software for the TG6000 IMU system, measure accuracy vs. measurement time for the baseline north finding software, and investigate new methods of shock and vibration hardening of the TG6000 without the existing shock isolator. The end result of this SBIR will be an EPD design that can be readily transitioned into a commercial product during Phase II."
Physics-based Modeling of Acoustic Reverberation in the Littoral Environment,N00014-04-C-0398,DOD,NAVY,STTR,2005,2,499999.00,"MARINE ACOUSTICS, INC.",809 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,Bernard L. Patterson,Vice President,4018477508,bernard.patterson@marineacoustics.c,William T. Ellison,Chief Scientist,8605675491,bill.ellison@marineacoustics.com,"Underwater acoustic modeling plays an essential role in the design, development, test, and operation of sonar systems. Active acoustic clutter can increase the sonar false alert rate or equivalently decrease the probability of detection/classification, and is a key issue in the development and utility of active sonar systems. The ability to predict reverberation and clutter is inseparably tied to other modeling tasks, including propagation modeling as well as boundary and volume characterization. The system sonar equation method supports development of a virtual acoustic environment and can be used to produce time series data for examination of the reverberation and clutter influence in the sonar system's operating parameters. A multi-tiered approach will be used, including: 1) physics-based clutter research (bottom clutter and volume clutter; 2) development of algorithms to generate stochastic realizations of bathymetry and volume scattering features; 3) development of a semi-deterministic reverberation model; 4) development of a module to incorporate stochastic clutter into a deterministic reverberation output; and 5) development of a Parabolic-Equation/Normal-Mode module. The overall objective is to develop and incorporate physics-based reverberation and clutter modeling approaches into current system sonar equation and propagation models used by the sonar designer, planner, and operator."
Recombinant IalphaIp: Treatment for Sepsis,1R43GM075649-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2005,1,137724.00,"MULTICELL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.","MULTICELL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.",701 GEORGE WASHIGNTON HIGHWAY,LINCOLN,RI,02865,No,No,No,,,4013330610,,Ronald A. Faris,,4013330610,FARIS@MULTICELLTECH.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant):
Sepsis is the systematic and overwhelming response to infection. Once triggered, an uncontrolled cascade of coagulation, impaired fibrinolysis, and inflammation drive disease progression. This results in damage to the lungs, liver, kidney and cardiovascular system, leading to multiple organ failure and an associated high mortality rate in severe sepsis disease states. In the United States, sepsis is the leading cause of death in the non-cardiac intensive care unit and the 10th leading cause of death overall.
Inter-alpha-inhibitor proteins (IaIp) are serine protease inhibitors that have recently been implicated as a treatment for sepsis. When serum IaIp values fall below 40% in septic patients, there is a high incidence of mortality. Administration of human IaIp improved the survival rate from 30% to 89% in septic animals at 10 days after cecal puncture. Presently, the only source of IaIp is to purify it from human plasma. The biochemical complexity and critical post-translation modifications of IaIp preclude expressing the recombinant protein by conventional systems. MultiCell has recently developed highly functional, immortalized human hepatocytes that continue to express plasma proteins including IaIp. The goal of this phase I SBIR project is to genetically engineer an immortalized human hepatocyte cell line designated Fa2N-4 to express high levels of recombinant IaIp. This will be accomplished by genetically introducing plasmid constructs that allow the co-expression of the 4 subunits that comprise IaIp. Conditioned medium from transiently transfected cells will be analyzed by ELISA and biologically measured via a trypsin inhibition assay for active IaIp. If successful, the goal of the Phase II project will be to create stable cell lines that express IaIp and to scale up the production and purification of recombinant IaIp for preclinical evaluation."
Multi-media Obesity Prevention Program for Adolescents,2R44HL074482-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2005,2,988677.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice Prochaska,,4018744100,jmprochaska@prochange.com,Sara S. Johnson,,4018745612,SJOHNSON@PROCHANGE.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Obesity is recognized as a major public health concern and has become a national health priority. With the prevalence of adolescent obesity nearly triple what it was two decades ago, effective interventions to prevent and treat overweight and obesity among adolescents are needed. Programs to enhance the healthy behaviors related to obesity prevention with cost-effective, science-based and easily deliverable interventions can be effective solutions to help curb the rate of childhood overweight and obesity. The objective of this research is to develop and test a Transtheoretical Model-based intervention for high school students that promotes the adoption and maintenance of healthy behaviors related to the prevention of obesity. The successful completion of our Phase I project demonstrates that a stage-matched, multi-media expert system is both acceptable to high school students and feasible to conduct in a high school setting. The primary goals of our Phase II application are to complete the development of the expert system intervention and to assess its effectiveness in a randomized clinical trial. Effectiveness will be assessed by comparing fruit and vegetable consumption, physical activity, TV watching, and several secondary outcome measures among high school students randomly assigned to the intervention or control condition."
Multiple Behavior Change Internet Program for Colleges,1R43HL074485-01A2,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2005,1,151525.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4018744100,JMPROCHASKA@PROCHANGE.COM,Carol O. Cummins,,4018747023,CCUMMINS@PROCHANGE.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Unhealthy eating, lack of exercise, and poor stress management habits are started in adolescence and have been shown to initiate or promote chronic diseases. Well-designed health promotion programs are needed to assist college students in shaping a foundation of healthy behaviors. This Phase I application proposes the development of a multiple behavior change program for health promotion for college students that can be delivered at low cost over the Internet. As heavy users of the Internet, college students are an ideal population to test the Internet as a health promotion delivery channel. Individualized, interactive, multimedia programs based on the Transtheortetical Model and delivered by colleges to their students will have the potential to produce unprecedented impacts on three of the most risky and costly behaviors, namely diet, exercise and stress management. These programs will be designed to meet the needs of students in each Stage of Change and not just the small minority prepared to take action. Internet based expert system interventions for the three behaviors will be modified and evaluated by consultants, key informants, focus groups, and pilot participants to test the feasibility and acceptability of the programs."
A Stage-Based Expert System for Teen Dating Violence Prevention,1R43CE000499-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2005,1,99904.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice M. Prochaska,,,jpadula@prochange.com,Deborah A. Levesque,,4018744106,DLEVESQUE@PROCHANGE.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Male-to-female intimate partner violence accounts for 26% of violence-related injuries in women presenting in hospital emergency departments and 30% of all female homicides. Early to mid-adolescence provides an excellen
t window of opportunity for the prevention of intimate partner violence. Patterns of relating in intimate relationships are still relatively undifferentiated and open to influence. However, the evidence supporting traditional, school-based programs for t
he prevention of teen dating violence is mixed. A major problem with existing programs is that they are one size fits all, making it difficult to meet the diverse needs of students-boys and girls, individuals who are dating and those who are not, individ
uals who have experienced dating violence as a victim, perpetrator, or both, and those who have not. Perhaps most importantly, these interventions neglect individual differences in readiness to use healthy, non-violent ways of relating to stay violence-fre
e. In the current project, we will use expert system technology to integrate best practices for teen dating violence prevention with the Transtheoretical Model (TTM), the stage model, to develop an interactive computer-administered change program that de
livers individualized intervention sessions and exercises tailored to stage of change and other individual characteristics. The primary aims of this project are to develop and validate measures of each of the major dimensions of the TTM, develop a working
prototype of the expert system intervention for teen dating violence prevention, and determine the feasibility of our approach in a pilot test. High school students will participate in focus groups to generate ideas for the TTM measures (n=60) and to provi
de feedback on the intervention materials (n=60); cognitive interviews to ensure TTM instructions and questions are interpreted as intended (n=12); and usability tests to ensure that the expert system intervention is easily navigable and provides a coheren
t intervention experience (n=12). Six hundred students will complete surveys for measure development, and 100 will participate in the pilot test. Feasibility of this approach will be established if we are able to deliver the intervention as planned during
classroom sessions to at least 90% of pilot test participants, and if at least75% of pilot test participants provide an overall rating of 4 or higher (i.e., provide scores in the good to excellent range) on a measure of acceptability and perceived util
ity."
Inter-alpha Inhibitors in Detecting CNS Cancer,1U43CA110698-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2005,1,139911.00,"PROTHERA BIOLOGICS, LLC",551 Warren Avenue,,EAST PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Yow-pin Lim,,4013012056,PROTHERA@VERIZON.NET,Yowpin Lim,,4013012046,yplim@protherabiologics.com,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant) The overall goal is to develop a marketable novel predictive marker based on inter-alpha inhibitor proteins (laIp) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that can be utilized in the management of CNS cancer. Cost effective care, successful palliation of symptoms and new therapeutic insights for patients with primary and metastatic CNS cancer as well as with the involvement of leptomeninges depend largely on reliable diagnostic tests and outcome measures. Modem neuroimaging is useful in early diagnosis and subsequent monitoring of patients with CNS cancer. However, these studies are expensive and are limited by false negative and false positive findings. CSF cytology is the ""gold standard' diagnosis for leptomeningeal carcinomatosis. Unfortunately, false-negative results are very common. Currently, there are no biochemical markers that can detect the presence or activity of primary and metastatic CNS cancer. In our preliminary studies, when the CSF of CNS cancer patients were analyzed by Westernblot with a monoclonal antibody specific against human laIp, the levels of lalp were greatly elevated relative to those from non-cancer control patients or from systemic cancers without demonstrable CNS disease. The levels of IaIp suggest correlation with tumor burden and disease progression as well as response to therapy, raising the potential of lalp as a sensitive indicator. The detection of laIp in CSF seems to be a more accurate predictor of the presence of tumor cells in the CSF than conventional CSF cytology. In this proposal, we will focus on the development of a sensitive quantitative assay and a rapid semi quantitative immunoassay format that can be used without instrumentation. We will determine whether measurement of lalp levels in CSF allows for early detection and subsequent monitoring of primary and metastatic CNS malignancies and whether CSF IaIp levels facilitate an accurate prediction of treatment response and survival."
An Outcome Scale for Pathological Gambling,9R44DA020166-02A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2005,2,812980.00,PSYCH PRODUCTS PRESS,PSYCH PRODUCTS PRESS,BOX 228,EAST GREENWICH,RI,02818,No,No,No,Mark Zimmerman,,4018856746,MZIMMERMAN@LIFESPAN.ORG,Robert B. Breen,,4012770707,RBREEN@LIFESPAN.ORG,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Pathological gambling (PG) is a serious public health problem affecting at least 1% of the adult population in the U.S. By extension, it impacts families, business; and communities. Publicly funded-mental health services for pathological gamblers (PGs) exist in some states, but not in others. As the dependence of state governments on gambling revenues increases, public funding for services to PGs should also increase.
Instruments that measure the severity of PG have been limited in theoretical frame and content. They tend to assess PG by gambling behavior, debts, and other obvious, immediate consequences. This Phase II application intends to use the Rhode Island Gambling Outcome Rating Scale (RIGORS) in a state-funded, hospital- based gambling treatment program to:
1) Examine the utility of the RIGORS in identifying vulnerability to relapse in PGs during a12-month period. We expect that the RIGORS will provide incremental improvement in predictive validity of outcomes, including point-prevalence abstinence, frequency of gambling, and time to relapse when compared to other commonly used outcome measures; and
2) Establish that the RIGORS has strong, unbiased and stable psychometric properties in evaluating outcomes over time. We will compare the reliability, representativeness of items, levels of discrimination, and influence of gender bias on the RIGORS relative to other methods of assessing the severity of PG over time.
3) Commercially, the RIGORS will fill a niche for a brief, clinically useful, valid and reliable measure of a broad, latent continuum of PG severity. It can be used to monitor treatment effectiveness and cost efficiency, as well as for treatment planning and guidance. We hope to show that the RIGORS will be sensitive and unbiased at lower levels of severity in gamblers, and: thus may be used as a prophylactic tool to signal vulnerability to PG.
The target market for the RIGORS will include mental health providers and state agencies that administer services for PG."
Computerized Adaptive Assessment of Disease Impact,1R43AG025589-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2005,1,116569.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,Edward Gildea,,4013348800,EGILDEA@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,Jakob B. Bjorner,,4013348800,JBJORNER@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The project introduces a new approach to standardizing disease-specific assessments of Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) to achieve the advantages of both generic questionnaires, which can be compared across which have greater sensitivity and specificity. The approach builds on: (1) an item bank representing the most frequently measured domains of disease impact (e.g., role functioning, social functioning, and psychological distress), standardized across diseases, and (2) instructions to assess the impact of a specific disease (e.g., arthritis, diabetes) in answering each questionnaire item. The approach uses item response theory (IRT) and computerized adaptive testing (CAT) software to yield more practical and precise assessments over a wide range of disease conditions and severity levels - eliminating ""ceiling"" and ""floor"" effects. CAT software will be programmed to select and administer the most informative and relevant disease impact questions for each patient, with consideration of the clinical application. Standardization of the content of disease-specific impact items and calibration of these items across diseases makes it possible to achieve more responsive outcomes measures, while enabling meaningful comparisons across diseases/-treatments. Previous work has used IRT methodology to develop a bank of items with equivalent item calibrations across five diseases. The aims of Phase I of this project are to analyze existing data sets to evaluate the equivalence of these item calibrations across age groups and to test the feasibility of the Disease Impact CAT approach for elderly patients in a clinical setting. The feasibility study will use a prototype Disease Impact CAT to collect new data from 100 middle aged and elderly patients within five groups: arthritis, depression, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Separate feedback reports will be developed for the patients and the clinicians. Feasibility will be evaluated in terms of respondent burden, range of levels measured, item usage, and response consistency, as well as the clinicians' and patients' experience using the prototype CAT tool and the feedback reports. The product of Phase I will be a prototype Disease Impact CAT with preliminary evidence regarding feasibility and acceptance. Phase II will develop and further evaluate the potential of a comprehensive Disease Impact CAT Assessment System, standardized across primary and comorbid chronic diseases/conditions, in terms of psychometric performance and usefulness in clinical research and practice."
Computerized Adaptive Assessment of Chronic Pain,1R43AR052251-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2005,1,123046.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,Diane Turner-bowker,,4013348800,dtbowker@qualitymetric.com,Mark Kosinski,,4013348800,MKOSINSKI@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): We seek to achieve major advances in the standardization of chronic pain assessments and in the technology used to collect, process and display results. We propose to use: (1) item response theory (IRT) to calibrate widely-used visual analogue (VAS) and categorical rating scale items on a common pain metric, and (2) computerized adaptive testing (CAT) software to select and administer the items that are most informative and relevant to each patient. CAT and IRT will allow us to achieve more practical and precise assessments over a wide range of pain impact and severity levels - eliminating ""ceiling"" and ""floor"" effects and making the forward and backward comparability of scores from current and improved ""static"" and dynamic measures possible. VAS and other short-form measures often lack the precision to detect changes in individual patients over a wide range of scores. Alternatively, longer, more comprehensive static surveys may be more precise but are more costly and burdensome. Neither provides accepted standards for interpretation guidelines. To address these deficiencies, the four aims of Phase I are to: 1) develop a CHRONIC PAIN-CAT assessment from preliminary IRT calibrations of pain-specific items from widely-used questionnaires and display the results in a user-friendly patient report; 2) estimate the accuracy of scores, reductions in respondent burden, and psychometric merits of various item selection and stopping rules from simulated administrations of the CHRONIC PAIN-CAT; 3) conduct a feasibility study of the CHRONIC PAINCAT assessment in a sample of chronic pain sufferers to obtain preliminary estimates of item usage, respondent burden, range of levels measured, sensitivity of the instrument to discriminate between groups, and score accuracy in comparison with a full-length survey; and 4) evaluate user acceptance of CAT administrations relative to a full-length survey and patient experience using the prototype feedback report. The Phase I product will be a prototype CHRONIC PAIN-CAT with preliminary evidence regarding feasibility, acceptability and empirical performance; and a prototype report summarizing patient-level results. In Phase II, we will combine the CHRONIC PAIN-CAT with CAT modules for other generic health concepts (SF-36 and other HRQOL measures) to create a single comprehensive dynamic assessment system. We will utilize IRT to cross-calibrate the new metrics with scores from other widely-used pain-specific and generic impact surveys to enable meaningful comparisons of results across studies. The CAT application will be evaluated in terms of reliability, validity, responsiveness and score precision. Additionally, CHRONIC PAIN-CAT software will be programmed to operate via multiple modes of delivery to facilitate clinical research and improve assessment methods in clinical practice. During Phase II, possibilities for further improvement and expansion of the item pool and inclusion of additional impact domains will be explored."
A Phase I Program to the Low Temperature Performance of Li-ion Batteries,DE-FG02-05ER84392,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2005,1,99504.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,Mr.,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Thomas Barbarich,Dr.,8605991100,tbarbarich@lithion.com,"79758B Safety concerns over the susceptibility of large Li-ion cells to thermal runaway during overcharge are one of the problems preventing the commercialization of these cells. This problem will be addressed by developing new materials that will be substituted for the cell component believed to be involved in the runaway process. In particular, electrolyte systems that form less a resistive interface between the electrolyte and the electrodes will be developed. In Phase I, the new electrolyte systems will be prepared using various solvent and salt mixtures. These electrolytes will be studied by differential capacity measurements during formation, electrochemical impedance measurements, and conductivity measurements. These measurements will then be correlated to actual cell performance. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The technology should improve the performance of Li-ion batteries at low temperatures and also be cost effective. Applications include hybrid and electric automobiles as well as military and aerospace applications."
Pressure Tolerant Power Source for Off-Board Sensor,N00024-05-C-4125,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2005,1,69329.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,"Vice President / GM of Lithion, Inc",8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arthur Dobley,Research Scientist,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will advance an efficient and high energy density Lithium/(CF)x battery, using LithyleneT technology, for off-board sensors by developing a pressure tolerant cell design. Specifically the project advances lithium carbon monofluoride batteries by testing pouch cells with a riveted design (LithyleneT technology). The typical problem with batteries under high pressures is that the case crushes, damaging the electrodes. By using a pouch cell design with riveted electrodes, the cell will be able to tolerate high pressures and maintain the electrodes integrity. This design will enable the cell to withstand high pressures, and underwater battery systems will greatly improve. The proposed cells use modern lithium battery technology that offers safe and high energy density power. Yardney's experience and technologies in batteries for underwater vehicles, such as submarines and torpedoes, will be adopted in the design of the new Li/CFx batteries. Advantages of the proposed lithium ion cell designs include a high energy density, safe design, and the ability to perform under high pressures."
In Vitro Matrix-Cell Interaction in Bioartificial Muscle,1R43AG026176-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2005,1,99992.00,"CELLCURE, INC.",135 PROSPECT STREET,,PROVIDENCE,RI,02906,No,No,No,,,4014547848,,Herman H. Vandenburgh,,4018619770,herman_vandenburgh@brown.edu,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Ex vivo bioengineering of skeletal muscle tissue (BioArtificial Muscle, BAM) is currently aimed at two potential clinical applications following implantation in vivo: 1) to perform directed work to augment endogenous muscle force generation; and 2) to chronically secrete recombinant therapeutic proteins when the long-lived muscle fibers are genetically engineered. Tissue bioengineering requires the use of cells and an appropriate extracellular matrix such as collagen, and the design of a clinical product will necessitate the use of a FDA-approved collagen matrix. Type 1 collagens are currently available for cosmetic surgical applications, but their use in tissue bioengineering of skeletal muscle has not been optimized for either muscle force generation or therapeutic protein delivery. Collagen concentrations used to engineer human BAMs (HBAMs) from primary adult human skeletal muscle stem cells have poor viscoelastic properties and are anti-angiogenic when implanted into immunodeficient mice. The primary objective of this project is to reduce to a minimum HBAM collagen content while maintaining their structural integrity. HBAMs will be tissue engineered with varying amounts of FDA-approved collagens and their active force generation and elasticity measured in vitro. A patented Electro-Mechanical Tissue Stimulator (EMTS) device will be used to test the mechanical properties of the HBAMs and will serve as an important tool for quality control of the HBAMs as a commercial product. Adult muscle cells genetically engineered to secrete recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) will be bioengineered into HBAMs with varying concentrations of the FDA-approved collagens and in vitro secretion rates measured. Potential commercial applications of the improved engineered BAMs include the replacement of atrophied small muscles and the long term delivery of therapeutic proteins such as recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) systemically or insulin-like growth factor-1 (rhlGF-1) locally for the attenuation of skeletal muscle wasting disorders."
Restoring diabetic tactile sense using mechanical noise,2R44DK060295-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,2,752874.00,AFFERENT CORPORATION,AFFERENT CORPORATION,"BOX 160, 3 DAVOL SQ, STE C200",PROVIDENCE,RI,02903,No,No,No,Jason Harry,,4014539933,JASON_HARRY@AFFERENTCORP.COM,Jason D. Harry,,4014539933,JASON_HARRY@AFFERENTCORP.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): More than 10 million individuals in the U.S. are thought to suffer from diabetic neuropathies. Many serious medical problems stem from this condition, including degradation of the mechanical senses of touch and proprioception. Usually affecting the extremities first and most severely, the progressive loss of sensory function is a leading precursor to the formation of dangerous skin ulcers. For 80,000 Americans each year, the only treatment is partial or complete amputation of the affected extremity.
Afferent is working to develop an innovative non-invasive neurotherapeutic medical device that directly and immediately improves mechanical sensation in the feet and lower extremities of neuropathic diabetics with. By effectively ""turning up the volume"" of sensory information, our aim is to create products that increase the mobility of these individuals while decreasing the likelihood that they will experience skin ulceration.
The technology is based on the well-established finding that low-level stimulation applied to sensory receptors improves their sensitivity and raises the information content of their firing patterns. In our Phase I SBIR program, people with sensory loss secondary to diabetes showed significantly improved detection of plantar stimuli when small-amplitude mechanical vibratory stimulation was delivered to the foot sole. This was measured using traditional clinical neurological techniques. Mechanical foot sole stimulation also improved measures of quiet standing balance in diabetic subjects.
The proposed program will focus first on significantly advancing the design and performance of product prototypes. These new devices will then be tested on diabetic subjects to demonstrate efficacy at two levels: 1) localized improvement in tactile sensitivity measured using traditional neurological exams, and 2) system-level improvement in the biomechanics of dynamic balance and gait, as measured by plantar pressure distribution, tissue perfusion, and kinematics. Instruments and methods that can be used to optimize benefit for individuals, e.g. on the basis of the interplay between stimulation parameters and severity of the neuropathy, will also be developed. Results of this work will form the basis for undertaking a full-fledged product development effort, pivotal clinical trials, regulatory filings, and market introduction."
Implantable Noise-based Sensory Enhancement Devices,2R44NS042560-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,1,0.00,AFFERENT CORPORATION,AFFERENT CORPORATION,"BOX 160, 3 DAVOL SQ, STE C200",PROVIDENCE,RI,02903,No,No,No,,,4014539933,,Jason D. Harry,,4014539933,JASON_HARRY@AFFERENTCORP.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Stroke survivors constitute one of the largest groups of patients receiving rehabilitation services in the United States. The inability of most stroke survivors to regain full sensorimotor function significantly impacts quality of life while generating tremendous ongoing health care costs and losses to productivity. Recent scientific and clinical findings have provided new foundations for development of advanced therapies and technologies that strive to restore brain function post stroke. Among these findings is that sensory neuron activity in the periphery is a strong driver of the central neuroplastic changes that are necessary to regain cortical function. The Company's technology has been shown to increase this type of sensory flow in a manner that improves sensorimotor performance. The broad aim of this SBIR Phase II program is to fabricate and test novel stroke neurotherapy devices whose operating principles leverage the power of sensory activity and the compelling findings of our Phase I research. The Phase I research showed that subcutaneous stochastic resonance (SR) noise-based stimulation boosts afferent activity in a manner that is concordant with natural neuronal firing patterns and consequently increases information content. Our Phase II effort will utilize animal models of stroke rehabilitation and chronic post-stroke human subjects to explore the efficacy of this technology. Specifically, this program will accomplish the following objectives: (1) develop the technology to support advanced animal and chronic
post-stroke human studies, (2) use an established animal stroke and rehabilitation model to demonstrate the utility of SR-based stimulation in accelerating return to function, (3) use skin surface and in-dwelling electrodes to deliver SR stimulation in human stroke subjects to gauge acute improvements in motor performance, and (4) demonstrate in a pilothuman stroke group that SR stimulation can improve motor relearning outcomes. The results gained from this program are expected to motivate a full-fledged product development effort, pivotal clinical trials, regulatory filings, and market introduction."
Implantable Noise-based Sensory Enhancement Devices,2R44NS042560-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,2,748422.00,AFFERENT CORPORATION,AFFERENT CORPORATION,"BOX 160, 3 DAVOL SQ, STE C200",PROVIDENCE,RI,02903,No,No,No,,,4014539933,,Jason D. Harry,,4014539933,JASON_HARRY@AFFERENTCORP.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Stroke survivors constitute one of the largest groups of patients receiving rehabilitation services in the United States. The inability of most stroke survivors to regain full sensorimotor function significantly impacts quality of life while generating tremendous ongoing health care costs and losses to productivity. Recent scientific and clinical findings have provided new foundations for development of advanced therapies and technologies that strive to restore brain function post stroke. Among these findings is that sensory neuron activity in the periphery is a strong driver of the central neuroplastic changes that are necessary to regain cortical function. The Company's technology has been shown to increase this type of sensory flow in a manner that improves sensorimotor performance. The broad aim of this SBIR Phase II program is to fabricate and test novel stroke neurotherapy devices whose operating principles leverage the power of sensory activity and the compelling findings of our Phase I research. The Phase I research showed that subcutaneous stochastic resonance (SR) noise-based stimulation boosts afferent activity in a manner that is concordant with natural neuronal firing patterns and consequently increases information content. Our Phase II effort will utilize animal models of stroke rehabilitation and chronic post-stroke human subjects to explore the efficacy of this technology. Specifically, this program will accomplish the following objectives: (1) develop the technology to support advanced animal and chronic
post-stroke human studies, (2) use an established animal stroke and rehabilitation model to demonstrate the utility of SR-based stimulation in accelerating return to function, (3) use skin surface and in-dwelling electrodes to deliver SR stimulation in human stroke subjects to gauge acute improvements in motor performance, and (4) demonstrate in a pilothuman stroke group that SR stimulation can improve motor relearning outcomes. The results gained from this program are expected to motivate a full-fledged product development effort, pivotal clinical trials, regulatory filings, and market introduction."
Advanced Fluoropolymer Vessels for Ultra-Clean Ionization and Scintillation Detectors,DE-FG02-04ER83903,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2004,1,100000.00,"Applied Plastics Technology, Inc.",45 Broad Common Road,P.O. Box 45,Bristol,RI,02809,Yes,No,No,Andrew K. MacIntryre,Mr.,4012530200,andy.macintyre@ptfeparts.com,David L. Woisard,Mr.,4012530200,david.woisard@ptfeparts.com,"75336-A broad category of experiments in astro-particle and high energy physics requires the construction of ultra-high-purity and ultra-low-radioactive-background, cubic-meter-scale vessels to be used as containers for ionization and scintillation media. Double-beta decay experiments, solar neutrino experiments, and dark matter searches would all benefit from this technology. Plastics are among the materials with lowest radioactive contaminations, but they are usually not considered suitable because of their modest range of operating temperatures and their outgassing properties. This project will develop vessels made of ultra-clean fluoropolymers, addressing the common problems of thermal expansion and stability at extreme temperatures, electrical feed-through, and vacuum/pressure sealing and plumbing, while maintaining ultra-low radioactivity properties. Phase I will focus on developing modified polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) sintering and sealing process methods, needed to produce a prototype chamber with an interior volume of approximately 56 liters, such as required for the Enriched Xenon Observatory. Installation methods to feed-through instrumentation wire will be developed by analyzing a variety of wire materials and melt-processible fluoropolymers. Vacuum testing (with He and heavier gases), mechanical property analysis, and neutron activation analysis all will be used to qualify results. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The processing methods developed to fabricate the modified PTFE chamber should have application to semiconductor processing and chemical handling components, bio-pharmaceutical labware, and medical devices. The ultra-low radioactive background properties may be used for national security applications. The molding, sintering, and welding techniques should have uses in high purity applications that now utilize conventional compression molding processes."
A 71 to 86 GHz Digital Communications Transceiver with 5 GHz Instantaneous Bandwidth,FA8718-04-C-0074,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2004,2,750000.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,Michael A. Sherry,,4012950062,msherry@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"A W-band digital communications transceiver will be developed with 5 GHz instantaneous bandwidth utilizing the 71 - 76 and 81 - 86 GHz frequency spectrum recently allocated by the FCC. This project has both military and commercial applications for SATCOM and Point-to-Point digital communications using formats such as 1.25 Gbps and 10 Gbps Ethernet for extremely wideband data and video transmissions. It also enables more secure communications, at least on the receive side, because a frequency-hopping scheme can be implemented in software (so-called software radio) and hence is invisible to the receive hardware. The hardware emphasis in this project is to use low-cost COTS components so that the technology is affordable in large quantities. If the transceiver cost could be reduced and if significant technical hurdles could be overcome in the wideband digital processing, then digital beamforming could conceivably be used for tracking and communicating with LEO satellites, as proposed in our Phase I effort. The primary focus in this Phase II effort shall be on the development of 71 - 76 GHz SATCOM downlink receive hardware. We will also investigate development of 71 - 76 GHz transmit hardware as well as a 81 - 86 GHz transceiver for Pt-to-Pt and full-duplex SATCOM communications."
X-Band Digital Transmit Module for DBF Transmit/Receive Array,F19628-03-C-0024,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2004,2,697929.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"An X-band digital transmit module will be developed that is suitable for phased-array radar and communications applications. This proposed Phase II SBIR will combine our Phase-I X-band transmit module design with a DBF receiver that Applied Radar is developing through separate (non-SBIR) funding from AFRL. In addition, we will investigate the development of a synthesizer to provide a common LO signal to the transmit and receive modules. The design will utilize commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components wherever possible. Careful attention will be paid to form factor, electrical and mechanical connectivity issues and thermal dissipation. This transmit module will utilize the same packaging and pinout as Applied Radar's DBF receive module. This will allow Applied Radar's existing digital receive beamformer (DBF processor) to function as a digital transmit beamformer with slight firmware modifications. The existing receive array aperture may also be used for transmit so that the transmit and receive arrays can be operated side-by-side in a bistatic configuration. This will allow rapid development and demonstration of a simultaneous transmit/receive X-band DBF array. Alternatively, the digital transmit module may be packaged together with the digital receive module and a LO synthesizer to form a versatile transceiver module for many commercial applications."
Automated Cognitive Assessment System,1R43AG022744-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,1,123084.00,BRAIN RESOURCE COMPANY,BRAIN RESOURCE COMPANY,"450 VETERANS PARK HWY, BLDG 11",PROVIDENCE,RI,02914,No,No,No,,,4014311839,,Norman Gordon,,4014311839,NGORDON@LIFESPAN.ORG,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): People are living longer than ever before and one of the greatest challenges facing the elderly is maintaining adequate functional capacity as they reach advanced age. Achieving this goal in turn depends on the ability of health care providers to be able to carefully measure and monitor cognitive functioning and other aspects of functional status. Assessment of cognitive function in the elderly is also a critical aspect of pharmaceutical companies involved in the development of drugs to improve cognition. Computerized screening of cognitive impairment in the elderly offers advantages over standard paper and pencil administration, yet fully automated computerized neuropsychological batteries have not been developed for both research and clinical use in the elderly. In this phase I SBIR application, we propose to test the feasibility of the Brain Resource Company Computerized Assessment Battery (BRC-CAB), a portable computerized neuropsychological system that offers significant advantages over current methods. Our system is a standalone, fully automated computerized neuropsychological assessment system comprised of ten cognitive tests that tap the major networks of the brain. The cognitive tests include sufficient breadth to capture function across all major cognitive domains and it was developed for specific use in the elderly population. The tests are administered on a 600MH Xenus tablet using a touch screen interface and voice recording. In pilot studies we administered the computerized tests to a small sample of healthy elderly individuals and patients with probable Alzheimer's disease (AD). Preliminary analyses reveal that the battery is sensitive to the cognitive changes in the elderly. Commercialization of the automated system requires further evaluation of the psychometric properties and clinical application. In phase I of this application we will accomplish three primary aims. First, establish the validity and reliability of the computerized test battery. Standard paper-and-pencil tests will be given to determine the validity of the computerized tests. Split-half reliability will be examined using reliability coefficients. Second, we will assess perceived acceptability, computer familiarity, and rate of complete self-administration of the BRC-CAB. Third, we will administer the BRC-CAB to 50 patients with probable AD to demonstrate the sensitivity of the battery to cognitive impairments in this population. Correlations will demonstrate the validity and reliability of the BRC-CAB. Performances will be contrasted between healthy controls and the AD group using MANOVAs. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS: Potential commercial applications will include three primary groups: 1) pharmaceutical companies involved in the development of novel compounds to treat cognitive disorders in elderly patients, 2) clinicians seeking an economical, brief, and robust clinical screening of cognitive impairment in the elderly, and 3) academic researchers involved in the study of cognitive changes associated with aging."
"A GENOME-DERIVED, EPITOPE-DRIVEN TULAREMIA VACCINE",1R43AI058326-01A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,1,831922.00,"EPIVAX, INC.",146 CLIFFORD STREET,,PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Ronita Fisher,,4012722123,FISHERR@EPIVAX.COM,Anne S. Degroot,,4012773654,ANNE_DEGROOT@BROWN.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): EpIVax specializes in the development of epitope-driven vaccines by screening whole genomes for candidate vaccine components. In this application, we describe a rapid approach to the development of a tularemia vaccine that could be for BioDefense. First, F. tularensis genes that encode transmembrane, heat shock and secreted proteins will be screened for immunodominant epitopes by computer-driven (EpiMatrix) analysis of the bacterial genome. Limited in vitro assays will be performed to confirm MHC binding and immunogenicity of representative epitopes. Second, selected epitopes will be aligned and reverse translated in a string-of-beads formation into a DNA construct. The string of beads epitope construct will then be cloned into DNA plasmids optimized for strong and sustained expression in vivo. Third, we will vaccinate HLA-transgenic mice with the DNA vaccine constructs. De novo immune responses to the DNA vaccine constructs will be evaluated using intracellular cytokine flow cytometry. Fourth, we develop a model of protective immunity to aerosolized F. tularensis. Initially we will use this model to benchmark the protective efficacy of the LVS vaccine for later comparison studies. EpiVax will be responsible for selecting the F. tularensis epitopes and managing the project. The TB/HIV Research Lab at Brown University (subcontractor) will develop the oligonucleotide multi-epitope DNA vaccine constructs consisting of strings of the selected epitopes and Dr. Stephen Gregory (subcontractor, Liver Research Center, Lifespan Hospital) will perform the vaccination studies. The final product of Phase I will be an evaluation of the immunogenicity of several prototype tularemia vaccine constructs in transgenic mice and a functional challenge model. In Phase II we would screen additional epitopes, perform F. tularensis challenge studies, build the final vaccine constructs, optimize the immunogenicity of the final vaccine constructs with adjuvants and delivery vehicles and address the safety, toxicity and immunogenicity of the constructs in human subjects."
Enhanced DNA microarray performance with patterned probe,2R44HG002181-02A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,1,0.00,GENESPECTRUM,GENESPECTRUM,11 SEA BREEZE LN,BRISTOL,RI,02809,No,No,No,John Oliver,,4018632844,JOHN_OLIVER@BROWN.EDU,John S. Oliver,,4018632844,JOHN_OLIVER@BROWN.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The goal of the proposed research is to develop a method for significantly improving the performance of sequencing by hybridization (SBH), thus decreasing the cost and increasing the speed of sequencing DNA. If successful, the technology that GeneSpectrum Inc. is developing will reduce the cost of such sequencing by 100 fold. The limitations of current DNA sequencing technology and the growing appetite for DNA sequence information define a need for a rapid, inexpensive method for DNA sequence determination, particularly in applications to human health. Sequencing by hybridization was proposed as an efficient method for sequencing DNA in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The method proved to be inefficient and was essentially abandoned. We have discovered a novel approach to the design and interpretation of arrays that provides a large increase in the amount of information that can be extracted from the array and that will make SBH a viable technique. Our method relies on arrays of oligonucleotide probes that contain natural bases and universal bases. In the context of this proposal universal bases are defined as nucleotide analogs that, when incorporated into DNA, hybridize equally well with all four of the cognate bases. The universal bases are used to arrange the natural bases into patterns in the oligonucleotide probes. Arrays of these patterned oligonucleotides allow us to use unique algorithms that result in highly efficient sequence reconstruction. In the last two years, we have investigated the ability of several molecules to function as the universal base in our patterned probes. We have recently discovered a method to make surrogates of universal bases by using specific mixtures of natural bases, which we refer to as ""semi-degenerate"" bases. The result is the delineation of a method to form patterned probes that can be tested and used immediately. The objective of the project proposed here is to demonstrate that semi-degenerate bases will function in arrayed, patterned probes as universal bases."
Enhanced DNA microarray performance with patterned probe,2R44HG002181-02A1,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,2,790686.00,GENESPECTRUM,GENESPECTRUM,11 SEA BREEZE LN,BRISTOL,RI,02809,No,No,No,John Oliver,,4018632844,JOHN_OLIVER@BROWN.EDU,John S. Oliver,,4018632844,JOHN_OLIVER@BROWN.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The goal of the proposed research is to develop a method for significantly improving the performance of sequencing by hybridization (SBH), thus decreasing the cost and increasing the speed of sequencing DNA. If successful, the technology that GeneSpectrum Inc. is developing will reduce the cost of such sequencing by 100 fold. The limitations of current DNA sequencing technology and the growing appetite for DNA sequence information define a need for a rapid, inexpensive method for DNA sequence determination, particularly in applications to human health. Sequencing by hybridization was proposed as an efficient method for sequencing DNA in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The method proved to be inefficient and was essentially abandoned. We have discovered a novel approach to the design and interpretation of arrays that provides a large increase in the amount of information that can be extracted from the array and that will make SBH a viable technique. Our method relies on arrays of oligonucleotide probes that contain natural bases and universal bases. In the context of this proposal universal bases are defined as nucleotide analogs that, when incorporated into DNA, hybridize equally well with all four of the cognate bases. The universal bases are used to arrange the natural bases into patterns in the oligonucleotide probes. Arrays of these patterned oligonucleotides allow us to use unique algorithms that result in highly efficient sequence reconstruction. In the last two years, we have investigated the ability of several molecules to function as the universal base in our patterned probes. We have recently discovered a method to make surrogates of universal bases by using specific mixtures of natural bases, which we refer to as ""semi-degenerate"" bases. The result is the delineation of a method to form patterned probes that can be tested and used immediately. The objective of the project proposed here is to demonstrate that semi-degenerate bases will function in arrayed, patterned probes as universal bases."
Micro-ElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS) for Improving the Performance of Small Robotic Systems,W56HZV-04-C-0679,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2004,2,728903.00,"KVH INDUSTRIES, INC.",50 Enterprise Center,,Middletown,RI,02842 5279,No,No,No,Daniel Comway,VP Military Business Deve,4018458112,dconway@kvh.com,Thomas Monte,Principal Photonics Engin,7084443817,tmonte@kvh.com,"In Phase I, KVH Industries designed and prototyped a micro-machined all-fiber optic phase modulator and subsequently measured the modulator performance in a Sagnac interferometer gyroscope to prove feasibility of the approach. The micro-machined D fiber phase modulator is an enabling device to allow a robust and low cost effective rotation sensor for a diverse range of rotation rate sensor applications. In Phase II, KVH Industries proposes to carry out design and manufacturing process studies to optimize the performance of the micro-machined all-fiber phase modulator, and to integrate the new phase modulator into a fiber optic gyro (FOG). The end result of this investigation and subsequent implementations should be a rotation rate sensor design suitable for small robotic platforms, including Army unmanned ground vehicles, with a bias stability goal of less than 0.1¿ to 1¿ per hour and a cost goal of $1,000 or less per gyro axis."
COTS-Based Multilingual Translator for Military/Industrial Application,W31P4Q-04-C-R325,DOD,DARPA,STTR,2004,1,0.00,"MARINE ACOUSTICS, INC.",809 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,William White,Contracts Manager,4018477508,bill.white@marineacoustics.com,Ace Sarich,Project Manager,4107035473,ace@sarich.com,"The DARPA Phraselator is a, multilingual phrase translation system. The Phraselator is a rugged, weather resistant, voice-to-voice, translation device with superior audio input and output. It is available to both military and industrial users and more than 2,000 Phraselators have been manufactured and delivered. Because of the significant capabilities of this custom device, the cost is relatively high when compared to a COTS Pocket PC such as a HP iPAQ. While the Phraselator software had been successfully demonstrated on the HP iPAQ, this combination is neither rugged nor weather resistant; is not optimized for speech recognition; and is barely audible. However, the cost of a stand-alone PDA running Phraselator software is considerably less. To make DARPA Phraselator technology more readily available to military and commercial markets, the unit cost needs to be significantly reduced without severely impacting overall performance. The MAI/SRI team will develop a low cost multilingual translator that will function in a similar way to the current Phraselator, leverage off of existing Phraselator technology, and use existing databases. This new design will be a low cost, durable, single purpose device optimized for voice-to-voice phrase translation and will incorporate the state of the Phraselator hardware and software technology."
THERAPEUTIC USE OF INTER-ALPHA INHIBITOR IN SEPSIS,2R44GM065667-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,2,1501415.00,"PROTHERA BIOLOGICS, LLC",551 Warren Avenue,,EAST PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,M. Yow-pin lim,,4013012056,YOW-PIN_LIM_MD@BROWN.EDU,Yowpin Lim,,4013012046,YOW-PIN_LIM_MD@BROWN.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant):
The goal of the proposed research is to demonstrate that Inter-alpha serine protease inhibitor proteins (IaIp) are an effective therapy for sepsis. In sepsis, normally high plasma levels of IaIp drop dramatically in adult and newborn patients. We hypothesize that IaIp are consumed while mitigating the damaging effects of circulating proteases. We hypothesize that administration of IaIp will correct the imbalance between IaIp and plasma proteases, thereby preventing organ injuries and high mortality rates in sepsis. Animal studies in a rat cecal ligation/puncture model for sepsis have demonstrated that IaIp helps maintain hemodynamic stability, prevents organ injury, and improves survival. SBIR Phase I studies with highly purified Ialp confirmed Ialp as the preventive agent and showed beneficial effects of Ialp even when administration was delayed up to 10 hrs. after sepsis induction. These results strongly support further development of Ialp as a novel anti-inflammatory agent. In this study, we will scale up the production of human Ialp for preclinical studies in animals and humans to assess its safety, pharmacokinetic properties and efficacy in septic patients. These pilot Phase I/IIa studies will lead to development of novel anti-inflammatory agents for management of sepsis."
Computerized Adaptive Version of the PEDI,2R44HD042388-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,2,832729.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,Edward Gildea,,4013348800,EGILDEA@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,John E. Ware,,4013348800,JWARE@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Our objective is to achieve a major advance in the technology used to assess disability in children and youth. Measurement and practical requirements for identifying disability and evaluating individual progress across pediatric age groups and care settings present a serious dilemma to current fixed-item survey instruments. We have developed a prototype computerized, adaptive application called PEDI-CAT that produces comparable scoring levels, precision, and responsiveness to change at significant reductions in respondent burden compared to full-length version of Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI) scales. Phase II work will improve the PEDI item pool by broadening the appropriate age range measured by each scale. Norm-based item calibrations for the PEDI functional scales (mobility, self-care, and social functioning) will be developed by collecting general population data for the new PEDI. Scoring algorithms and score reports will be created for a fully operational PEDI-CAT system. The full PEDI-CAT will be evaluated in terms of reliability, validity, and precision across score levels to create an operational system for the assessment of disability in children and youth that will improve measurement in clinical research and practice. Specific aims are to: 1. Expand the original PEDI item pool in mobility, self-care and social functioning to incorporate functional tasks appropriate for children to 14 years of age; evaluate new items through content expert feedback, cognitive testing in parent and clinician focus groups, and a small field study (N=100). 2. Develop final item calibrations and normative profiles for the revised functioning item pools by collecting responses from two large, nationally-representative samples of caretakers for children age 6 months to 14 years: 1) a telephone-based survey sample (N=840); and 2) a web-based survey sample (N=1400). Estimate the extent to which data collection method (internet vs. telephone) is associated with differential item functioning. 3. Create a fully operational PEDI-CAT system with norm-based scoring and interpretive reports that can be administered on multiple platforms (e.g., desktop, hand-held devices); demonstrate the accuracy, precision, and reductions in respondent burden of the PEDI-CAT through real data simulation studies. 4. Confirm the validity and respondent acceptance of the PEDI-CAT in a clinical sample of children known to differ in disability status: receiving rehabilitation services (N=50) vs. not (N=50). A practical and feasible PEDI-CAT will greatly improve the information used in making decisions about disability status, service eligibility, program needs, outcomes of rehabilitation interventions and in clinical research. This new disability assessment will fill a critical void with a system that is more practical and precise, programmed to be fully operational on both desktop and hand-held devices."
Computerized Adaptive Assessment of Asthma Impact,1R43HL078252-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,1,99384.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,John Ware,,4013348800,JWARE@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,Diane M. Turnerbowker,,4013348800,DTBOWKER@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Understanding the functional impact of asthma on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) can be substantially improved using item response theory (IRT) and competing objectives of more practical and more precise assessments can be achieved over a wide range of severity levels using computerized adaptive testing (CAT), which matches questionnaire items to each patient's level. If more available, such information could be useful in enhancing patient-caregiver communication. Among the limiting factors is the impracticality (respondent burden) of today's HRQOL measures. Short-forms (e.g., SF-36"", AQLQ) are more practical, however, ""ceiling"" and ""floor"" effects limit their ranges and they lack the precision to detect changes in individual patient scores. To address these deficiencies, the aims of Phase I are to use previously developed IRT calibrations for a combined ""pool"" of items from asthma-specific questionnaires covering major domains of asthma impact to: (1) administer asthma impact, asthma control, and generic HRQOL measures as a ""seamless"" assessment and display their results in tandem in a single user-friendly aggregate report; (2) obtain preliminary estimates of item usage, respondent burden (number of items required and administration times), range of levels measured (ceiling and floor effects), and score accuracy in comparison with a full length survey; (3) conduct preliminary evaluations of the acceptance of CAT administrations relative to full length questionnaire; and (4) conduct preliminary evaluations of the usefulness of the prototype aggregate report. The product of Phase I will be a prototype comprehensive ASTHMA-CAT with preliminary evidence regarding feasibility, acceptability, and likely empirical performance. In Phase I1, we will ""marry"" the new asthma-specific CAT with item pools for generic CAT forms (based on SF-36 and other widely-used HRQOL measures) to create a single comprehensive system. A substantial advantage of our approach in Phase II is the ability to utilize IRT models to ""cross-calibrate"" the new metrics with scores from current widely used asthma-specific and generic impact tools to enable meaningful comparisons of results. ASTHMA-CAT software, programmed to be fully operational on the Internet and PC-compatible in Phase II, will facilitate clinical research and improve assessment methods for use in clinical practice. Output will be evaluated in terms of reliability, validity and precision of scores. By greatly lowering data collection costs, reducing respondent burden, eliminating ""ceiling"" and ""floor"" effects and increasing the precision of individual patient scores, routine monitoring of HRQOL may become feasible as a clinical tool among asthma sufferers and patients with other chronic illnesses."
Functional Health CAT in Diabetes,1R43DK066874-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,1,99946.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4013348800,,Carolyn E. Schwartz,,7818905544,CSCHWARTZ@HAL-HEALTH.ORG,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): We seek to extensively advance the technology for measuring health-related quality of life (HRQOL) for adults with diabetes using item response theory (IRT) and computerized adaptive testing (CAT) methods. HRQOL, increasingly accepted as an important outcome in clinical research, is also becoming appreciated as an important predictor (risk factor) and outcome in disease management. If more readily available, such information could be useful in informing treatment choices and enhancing patient-caregiver communication in diabetes care. Among the major factors limiting their widespread routine use is the impracticality (respondent burden) of today's HRQOL measures. Short-forms have proven more practical and acceptable to patients; however, ""ceiling"" and ""floor"" effects typically result from measuring a limited range within each health domain. Further, short forms (e.g., the SF-36) lack the precision necessary to detect changes in individual patient scores. To address these deficiencies, the principal aims of Phase I are to use preliminary IRT calibrations applied to diabetes-specific questionnaire items covering the major domains of disease impact (body pain, physical functioning, social and role participation, psychological distress and well-being, vitality) to: (1) build a prototype web-based diabetes impact CAT; (2) estimate actual reductions in respondent burden, range of levels measured, and score accuracy of DIABETES-CAT in comparison with scores for the full-length (""static"") survey in a pilot field test of patients with diabetes (N=100) in a clinical setting; (3) evaluate patient and clinician acceptance of actual CAT administrations relative to full-length questionnaires; and (4) evaluate the discriminant validity of the disease-specific and generic CAT and static tools in relation to differences in glycemic control. The product of Phase I will be a prototype version of a DIABETES-CAT with preliminary evidence regarding feasibility, acceptability and empirical performance. In Phase II, we hope to ""marry"" the new diabetes-specific CAT and the expanded item pools for the eight generic CAT forms (based on SF-36 and other widely-used measures) and create a single system. Items will be evaluated rigorously and those fitting an IRT model will be calibrated on a common metric. A substantial advantage of our approach is the ability to utilize IRT models to cross-calibrate scores with current widely used diabetes-impact tools and to meaningfully compare results. DIABETES-CAT will be evaluated in terms of reliability, validity (discriminant and responsiveness) and precision across score levels to create a fully operational system that will facilitate clinical research and improve assessment methods for use in clinical practice. By greatly lowering data collection costs, reducing respondent burden, eliminating ""ceiling"" and ""floor"" effects and increasing the precision of individual patient scores, routine monitoring of disease-specific and generic HRQOL may become feasible as a clinical tool and lead to acceptance of CAT among patients with diabetes and other chronic illnesses."
Computerized Adaptive Assessment of Headache Impact,1R43NS047763-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,1,85522.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4013348800,,Jakob B. Bjorner,,4013348800,JBJORNER@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): We have demonstrated that estimates of the functional impact of headaches and their impact on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) can be substantially improved using item response theory (IRT) and competing objectives of more practical and more precise assessments can be achieved over a wide range of severity levels using computerized adaptive testing (CAT), which matches items to each patient's level. If more available, such information could be useful in enhancing patient-caregiver communication. Among the limiting factors is the impracticality (respondent burden) of today's HRQOL measures. Short-forms (e.g., SF-36 (r), MIDAS) are more practical, however, ""ceiling"" and ""floor"" effects limit their ranges and they lack the precision to detect changes in individual patient scores. To address these deficiencies, the aims of Phase I are to use previously-developed IRT calibrations for a combined ""pool"" of items from headache-specific questionnaires covering major domains of headache impact to: (1) combine headache impact assessments with generic HRQOL assessments and display their results in tandem in a single user-friendly patient report; (2) obtain preliminary estimates of item usage, respondent burden (number of items required and administration times), range of levels measured (ceiling and floor effects), and score accuracy in comparison with a full-length survey; (3) comparison of the measurement precision of DYNHA(r)-HIT TM scores using the new enhanced item pool in comparison with items from the original item pools1; (4)evaluation of the acceptance of CAT administrations relative to full-length questionnaires; and (5) evaluation of the patient's experience using the prototype feedback report. The product of Phase I will be a prototype comprehensive HEADACHE-CAT with preliminary evidence regarding feasibility, acceptability and empirical performance. In Phase II, we will ""marry"" the new headache -specific CAT with item pools for generic CAT forms (based on SF-36 and other widely-used HRQOL measures) to create a single comprehensive system. A substantial advantage of our approach is the ability to utilize IRT models to cross-calibrate the new metrics with scores from current widely used headache-specific and generic impact tools to enable meaningful comparisons of results. HEADACHE-CAT software, programmed to be fully operational on the Internet and PC-compatible, will facilitate clinical research and improve assessment methods for use in clinical practice. Output will be evaluated in terms of reliability, validity and precision of scores. By greatly lowering data collection costs, reducing respondent burden, eliminating ""ceiling"" and ""floor"" effects and increasing the precision of individual patient scores, routine monitoring of HRQOL may become feasible as a clinical tool among headache sufferers and patients with other chronic illnesses."
Intelligent Test Data Analysis Technology (IT-DAT),N68335-04-C-0209,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2004,2,599924.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,Brian W. Gilligan,President,4018472260,gilligan@seacorp.com,David Cadorette,Principal Systems Enginee,4018472260,dcadorette@seacorp.com,"Modern weapon and aircraft control systems are software intensive, containing many complex internal and external interfaces. Accurate testing is vital to ensure that the system is functioning properly and will meet all operational requirements. Most current testing focuses on components and subsystems and is labor intensive relying heavily on the subjective judgment of expert personnel. There are few automated systems to aid in the collection and interpretation of test data. The few systems that do exist still rely on the interpretation of data by system experts. This project will develop a software system to facilitate a more thorough and efficient test and evaluation process. The software system will provide a framework for test script generation, remote data acquisition, remote systems monitoring, automatic archiving of test data, query capability for requirements validation, identification of trends in data, and comparison of newly acquired data against historical data. The project will use proven technologies in the collection and archiving of data, leveraging existing tools such as the SEA CORP SEAHAWK tools in addition to widely used COTS tools."
AGILE Sonobuoy Launcher,N68335-04-C-0056,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2004,2,748425.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,Brian W. Gilligan,President,4018472260,gilligan@seacorp.com,David A. Lussier,Principal Systems Enginee,4018472260,dlussier@seacorp.com,"Current helicopter sonobuoy launchers are complex, heavy and will not meet future requirements for mission versatility. Because of the complexity of the launcher and its pneumatic subsystem, the launcher has many points of potential failure; its reliability is poor. Further, as in other pneumatic systems involving stored compressed air, the system is subject to vagaries of pressure which can result in uneven or incomplete expulsion of stores. Phase I proved the feasibility of an ""AGILE"" (Airborne Gas Inflator Lightweight Ejector) launcher using COTS automotive airbag inflators as a source of sonobuoy ejection energy, a lightweight, modular structure and intelligent controls. The Phase II project will validate the concept by building and testing a full-scale prototype. The individual AGILE launcher cells are independent of external energy sources. This permits the consideration of innovative concepts for launcher design and operation. The use of inflators also imparts many other advantages. The AGILE Launcher eliminates virtually all moving parts, thus reducing failures and simplifying logistics and maintenance. The proposed launcher will be extremely reliable, lightweight, versatile and safe, with a lower total ownership cost achieved through reduced maintenance, repair and logistics support requirements."
"Automated Launch and Recovery of Un-tethered, Mini-Unmanned Underwater Vehicles from Unmanned Surface Vehicles",N00014-04-M-0165,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2004,1,69999.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,Brian Gilligan,President,4018472260,gilligan@seacorp.com,David A. Lussier,"Vice President, R&D",4018472260,dlussier@seacorp.com,"Current development of Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) includes the exploration of various mission capabilities. One mission capability desired of future USVs is mine hunting, using Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) to perform this task. Candidate USV/UUV future platforms to perform completely unmanned UUV launch, recovery, battery recharge, and data extraction of mine hunting include the Spartan USV and the REMUS UUV. REMUS UUV R&D test deployments to date have been from manned vessels. Similarly, USV R&D test deployments of the Spartan have not yet completely demonstrated the autonomous launch and recovery of a UUV, such as REMUS. SEA CORP will investigate the application of innovative technologies to perform the completely autonomous launch and recovery of a UUV from a USV. The SEA CORP solution will address four specific UUV processes required: Launch, Recovery, Data Extraction, and Make Ready. Reliability, cost, and producibility are key factors that will be investigated for this application."
NEUROSCI-BASED COGNITIVE TESTS AS OUTCOMES MEASURES PROJ,N44MH032057,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,1,0.00,"SENTION, INC.",1 RICHMOND SQUARE,,PROVIDENCE,RI,02906,No,No,No,,,4012727177,,Kjesten Wiig,,,,N/A
NEUROSCI-BASED COGNITIVE TESTS AS OUTCOMES MEASURES PROJ,N44MH032057,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,2,442338.00,"SENTION, INC.",1 RICHMOND SQUARE,,PROVIDENCE,RI,02906,No,No,No,,,4012727177,,Kjesten Wiig,,,,N/A
"A COMPACT, LOW-POWER SUBMERSIBLE CHEMICAL ANALYZER PAYLOAD FOR AUTONOMOUS UNDERWATER VEHICLES",N00014-04-M-0057,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2004,1,69947.00,"SUBCHEM SYSTEMS, INC.",65 Pier Road,,Narragansett,RI,02882,No,No,No,Alfred Hanson,President,4018746294,hanson@subchem.com,Eugene Morin,Senior Systems Engineer,4018746179,emorin@subchem.com,"SubChem Systems proposes to design and develop a compact, low power submersible chemical analyzer payload for deployment on autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV). The primary objective of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of developing a Micro AUV Ready Chemical (MARCHEM) Analyzer. This device will be capable of performing real-time, rapid response measurements of trace chemicals in marine waters. This sensor will use specialized low-power, miniature, electro-fluidic and optical detection devices to accomplish the chemical analysis. The objective of the Phase I effort is to produce a system design and to investigate the feasibility for the development of a MARCHEM analyzer for ammonia as a payload for two types of AUVs: micro-sized propeller-driven vehicles and coastal gliders. SubChem Systems is working closely with the Navy to ensure that the technologies meet service needs and will be adopted by end-users. Further, we are working with the manufacturers of AUVs to ensure a pathway to commercialization and marketing."
Transcleral Delivery of Drugs from a Collagen System,1R43EY015588-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2004,1,99025.00,"XIUM, LLC","XIUM, LLC","55 BEACH ST, #8",WESTERLY,RI,02891,No,No,No,,,9782500728,,Dale P. Devore,,9782500728,DALECOL1@AOL.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant) The overall objective of this project is to develop an injectable or implantable matrix system to provide sustained delivery of therapeutic drugs to the posterior chamber of the eye for treatment of macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and other ocular diseases. More effective methods of drug delivery to the posterior segment of the eye are needed for treatment of posterior segment disease. Current ocular drug delivery systems primarily include topical drops, subconjunctival and peribulbar injections, oral administration, intravitreal injections and implants. Each of these delivery routes has significant limitations for posterior drug delivery. Localized drug delivery would be a great advantage in treating posterior segment disease where systemic side effects can be avoided. The sclera of the eye has been found to be permeable to a wide variety of compounds and may be a possible route for local drug delivery. The objectives of the Phase I project are to formulate collagen-based matrices that can be injected or implanted beneath the conjunctiva and to measure the in vitro human scleral permeability of several drugs including dexamethasone, methotrexate, and vancomycin delivered in these systems. The specific aims are to formulate injectable in situ polymerizing collagen solutions and solid collagen matrices containing fluorescein-labeled drugs and to measure the transcleral diffusion of the target drugs using a specially designed perfusion chamber at Emory University. Injectable, in situ polymerizable collagen will be prepared from animal hide as described in U.S. Patent 5,492,135. Solid collagen will be prepared from chemically derivatized collagen by exposing the derivatized collagen to ultraviolet light. Both preparations will be dosed with fluorescein-labeled drugs. Diffusion through human sclera will be measured in the in vitro perfusion chamber (Emory University). Results will be analyzed to determine the most effective matrix system for sustained drug delivery. This system will then be used in Phase II studies in animal models."
A Phase I SBIR Program for an Ultra-lightweight Lithium Air Battery for Unmanned Air Vehicles,FA8651-04-C-0132,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2004,2,749759.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arthur Dobley,,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase II project will advance an efficient and lightweight power plant for Unmanned Air Vehicles by developing an ultra-lightweight lithium air battery coupled with an electric motor. Specifically, the project advanced lithium air batteries by: 1) optimizing a high capacity air cathode structure developed in Phase I; 2) tailoring electrolytes to the system; and 3) developing an oxygen selective membrane to increase oxygen diffusion from the atmosphere and mitigate water infusion into the battery. By improving the structure of the air cathode and using metal catalysts, the specific capacity of the cathodes were greatly improved. The developed air cathode structure is a carbon composite with a binding agent and metal catalyst. Metal catalysts are incorporated to enhance the oxygen reduction kinetics and capacity utilization, within the cathode structure. Yardney's experience and technologies in the zinc-air and Al-air power sources will be adopted in the design of the new large lithium air cells and batteries. Advantages of the proposed lithium air battery include a high energy, ultra-lightweight and safe design, environmentally friendly components, and an increased oxygen diffusion rate cathode."
Innovative Manufacturing Processes,N00178-04-C-3064,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2004,2,749323.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,General Manager,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Robert Gitzendanner,Senior Development Scient,8605991100,rgitz@lithion.com,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc. (Yardney) proposes a program to develop and test a high-performance, prismatic Lithium-ion battery, and demonstrate the manufacturing capability and reliability of the system for use in government, military and commercial satellite applications. This program will continue from the success of the Phase I program in developing suitable battery monitoring and control electronics for enhanced performance. The addition of monitoring, balancing and control electronics to this type of battery further enhances the reliability and safety of these systems. High capacity batteries, common in many satellite systems, will be developed for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) simulation testing. A modular design approach is presented in this effort to allow simple modification to the electronics and battery architecture to make it suitable for a wide range of satellite power needs. This program will demonstrate the viability of these battery systems for specialized satellites such as SIBRS High and Low and other Military applications, NASA Nanosats, and many commercial satellite clusters."
Ballistic Missile System Innovative Power Storage Devices,N00164-04-C-6047,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2004,1,93802.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,General Manager,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Thomas Barbarich,Research Scientist,8605991100,tbarbarich@lithion.com,Safety concerns over the susceptibility of large Li-ion cells to thermal runaway during overcharge are one of the problems preventing the commercialization of these cells. New materials will be developed which will prevent thermal runaway and capacity fade from occurring. These will be substituted for a cell component that is believed to be involved in these processes.
Lithium-Air Technology,W15P7T-04-C-C606,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2004,1,119676.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,General Manager,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arthur Dobley,Research Scientist,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will advance the lithium air battery with improved rate of discharge, capacity, and water repulsion. Specifically the project advances lithium air batteries by focusing on increased oxygen diffusion in the porous carbon electrode by the use of oxygen transport molecules in the electrolyte. Typical problems of metal air batteries are low oxygen diffusion rates and water contamination. By enhancing the electrolyte with oxygen transport molecules and using a non-aqueous proprietary thin film composite polymer electrolyte, the battery system will greatly improve in both of these aspects. The oxygen transport molecules will increase the amount of dissolved oxygen carried by the electrolyte in the porous air cathode. This will increase the rate of discharge and the capacity by distributing the oxygen throughout the pores of the cathode. We propose to increase the oxygen diffusion rate of the cathode structure by investigating different oxygen transport molecules in combination with several electrolyte compositions. Yardney's experience and technologies in the metal-air power sources will be adopted in the design of the new advanced Li-Air battery. Advantages of the proposed lithium air battery include a high energy density, safe design, environmentally friendly components, and increased oxygen diffusion."
Lithium-Air Technology,W15P7T-05-C-P406,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2004,2,713853.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,General Manager/Vice Pres,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arthur Dobley,Research Scientist,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase II project will advance an efficient and lightweight power source for man portable equipment by developing a lightweight lithium air battery. Specifically the project advances lithium air batteries by 1) optimizing our oxygen transport molecules developed in phase one, 2) increasing specific capacity, and 3) developing an oxygen selective membrane to increase diffusion from the atmosphere. By using the oxygen transport molecules in the electrolyte the specific capacity of the cathodes were greatly improve by better utilization of the cathode. The oxygen transport molecules will increase the amount of dissolved oxygen carried by the electrolyte in the porous air cathode. This will increase the rate of discharge and the capacity by distributing the oxygen throughout the pores of the cathode. The oxygen transport molecules also have water repulsion properties to increase the safety of the cell. Yardney's experience and technologies in the zinc-air and Al-air power sources will be adopted in the design of the new large lithium air cells and batteries. Advantages of the proposed lithium air battery include a high energy density, lightweight, safe design, environmentally friendly components, and an increased oxygen diffusion rate."
Assessing Useful Remaining Life of Lithium (Li)-Ion Batteries After Deep Discharges,N68335-04-C-0176,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2004,1,69878.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,General Manager,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joseph DiCarlo,Director of Research,8605991100,jdicarlo@lithion.com,"Yardney/Lithion, Inc. in collaboration with Penn State University (PSU) proposes to undertake an in-depth study of the over-discharge and overcharge behavior of the Li-ion battery, and develop and implement an appropriate prognostics and health management (PHM) technology in relation to its deployment in the JSF. The method consists of measuring the capacity and impedance changes in the battery and evaluating the datausing hybrid automated reasoning schemes involving neural network, fuzzy logic and decision theoretic methods. It is proposed to apply these methods to develop a PHM for the Li-ion battery in relation to its use in the JSF."
Enhancing Elderly Balance & Gait Using Mechanical Noise,2R44HD040035-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2003,1,0.00,AFFERENT CORPORATION,AFFERENT CORPORATION,"BOX 160, 3 DAVOL SQ, STE C200",PROVIDENCE,RI,02903,No,No,No,,,4014539933,,Jason D. Harry,,4014539933,JASON_HARRY@AFFERENTCORP.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): EIderly falls constitute one of the most costly health problems in the U.S., both in terms of expense to the healthcare system and in individual suffering. Fully one-third of people over age 65 fall each year, many incurring significant injuries that strongly impact their long-term health prospects and productivity. Although many factors contribute to the propensity of the elderly to fall, it has been clearly shown that loss of peripheral sensation (particularly in foot sole and lower extremity muscles and joints) is key among them. A technology that directly improves peripheral sensation would be instrumental in combating elderly falls. Developing this technology is the long-range goal of this program.
Stochastic resonance (SR) is a counterintuitive phenomenon in which slight amounts of noise presented to a system increases its ability to discern weak signals or stimuli. Many researchers have shown that SR can improve the performance of sensory systems in animal models and human subjects. Afferent Corporation's Phase I SBIR research demonstrated that SR-based stimulation of foot-sole significantly improved balance in elderly subjects.
The goal of this proposed research is to advance the Phase 1 results toward a commercially realizable stimulation system to improve the balance and gait of elderly. The work will focus first on the development of pre-production fully functioning models of an insole that provides mechanical SR stimulation. The functional benefits of these devices will be tested in three ways: (1) standing balance (quiet and perturbed), (2) adaptation following prolonged exposure, and (3) gait (normal and perturbed) and mobility. Both healthy elderly and elderly subjects who are known to suffer from instability and falls will be studied. Established, quantitative measures of balance, gait, and mobility will be used to analyze results from trials that are blinded to both the subject and the technician performing the experiment. The results gained from this program are expected to motivate a full-fledged product development effort, regulatory filings, and market introduction."
Enhancing Elderly Balance & Gait Using Mechanical Noise,2R44HD040035-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2003,2,742357.00,AFFERENT CORPORATION,AFFERENT CORPORATION,"BOX 160, 3 DAVOL SQ, STE C200",PROVIDENCE,RI,02903,No,No,No,,,4014539933,,Jason D. Harry,,4014539933,JASON_HARRY@AFFERENTCORP.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): EIderly falls constitute one of the most costly health problems in the U.S., both in terms of expense to the healthcare system and in individual suffering. Fully one-third of people over age 65 fall each year, many incurring significant injuries that strongly impact their long-term health prospects and productivity. Although many factors contribute to the propensity of the elderly to fall, it has been clearly shown that loss of peripheral sensation (particularly in foot sole and lower extremity muscles and joints) is key among them. A technology that directly improves peripheral sensation would be instrumental in combating elderly falls. Developing this technology is the long-range goal of this program.
Stochastic resonance (SR) is a counterintuitive phenomenon in which slight amounts of noise presented to a system increases its ability to discern weak signals or stimuli. Many researchers have shown that SR can improve the performance of sensory systems in animal models and human subjects. Afferent Corporation's Phase I SBIR research demonstrated that SR-based stimulation of foot-sole significantly improved balance in elderly subjects.
The goal of this proposed research is to advance the Phase 1 results toward a commercially realizable stimulation system to improve the balance and gait of elderly. The work will focus first on the development of pre-production fully functioning models of an insole that provides mechanical SR stimulation. The functional benefits of these devices will be tested in three ways: (1) standing balance (quiet and perturbed), (2) adaptation following prolonged exposure, and (3) gait (normal and perturbed) and mobility. Both healthy elderly and elderly subjects who are known to suffer from instability and falls will be studied. Established, quantitative measures of balance, gait, and mobility will be used to analyze results from trials that are blinded to both the subject and the technician performing the experiment. The results gained from this program are expected to motivate a full-fledged product development effort, regulatory filings, and market introduction."
ElectronicTextile Antennas,DAAH0103CR200,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2003,2,349776.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William Weedon,President,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William Weedon,President,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"Long-duration wide-area surveillance missions increasingly are space-based. MEO orbits offer space-based radar systems more time on station, but require very large array apertures on the order of 100m in diameter. Achieving larger apertures with smaller,lighter launch packages and stable on-orbit pointing is a challenge that E-Textiles promises to meet. Textile processes can be used to achieve a low-cost, lightweight array capable of being stowed in a launch vehicle and deployed in orbit. During Phase I,we demonstrated the feasibility of E-Textile antennas by constructing and testing an assortment of multilayer antenna and feed modules. Copper wire and stainless steel yarns were hand-embroidered onto codura, vinyl coated canvas and fiberglass and stitchedtogether with foam and knit spacer fabrics to form textile-based microstrip patch antennas. Our Phase II work will build this E-textile technique using computer-controlled industrial embroidering machines to build up more sophisticated arrays withtolerances and repeatability afforded bya a computer-automated textile process. We will also investigate alternative E-textile methods such as nonwovens and custom metallic knits for building space-based antennas. The design will culminate in theconstruction of a 1m x 1m subarray that can be used to form a 4m x 100m array in a tile-architecture."
EHF Wideband Digital Beamforming Array for SATCOM,F19628-03-C-0084,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2003,1,99976.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,President,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,N/A
Digital Beamforming (DBF) Array Technology for Multi-Mission Radar and Communication Applications,DAAB07-03-C-L41,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2003,1,69834.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,President,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"Digital Beamforming (DBF) technology offers several advantages to phased-array radar and communication systems over previous analog phase shifters including performance, versatility and cost. Previous array phase-shifter technology can be classified aseither fixed delay, employing switched delay lines, or variable delay, using ferrite phase shifters. The fixed-delay systems suffer from lack of versatility, whereas the variable-delay systems suffer from performance variations, such as over temperature.DBF eliminates these performance variations and allows the beams to be optimized for the application. It is not unreasonable to expect 30dB or better sidelobes from a DBF system and deep nulls can be steered for jam suppression. One other major advantageto DBF is that multiple simultaneous beams can be formed to look in several directions simultaneously. Multiple functions such as communications and radar can also be integrated and multiplexed in the same aperture. This proposal addresses the developmentof low-cost DBF modules employing the integration of MMICs and digital hardware. Applied Radar Inc. has an on-going DBF antenna array development effort that may be used to enhance this project. This SBIR effort will leverage our previous DBF work anddirect it towards the US Army's needs for multi-mission radar and communications. DBF technology will enable a low-cost phased-array radar with better performance than currently available analog phased-array systems. The US Army's Firefinder program willbe the direct beneficiary. This proposed development effort will also benefit our on-going DBF program with other DoD customers in various applications including space-based radar and communication systems, UAV radars, and conformal aircraft antennas.There are also a number of commercial applications including cellular base station antennas, commercial satellite communications and ATC radars."
X-Band Interferometric Radar (XBIR) for MMR Precision Tracking,W15P7T-04-C-K407,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2003,2,729957.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William Weedon,President,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William Weedon,President,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"An X-band interferometric radar (XBIR) system employing digital beamforming (DBF) is proposed to supplement the S-band multi-mission radar (MMR) phased array currently under development by Syracuse Research. This auxiliary X-band array will bolt onto theapproximate 1.5 x 2.0 meter MMR array and provide a precision tracking capability for fire control. The two radars will operate cooperatively in various modes of operation handing off targets between the two radar systems and the fire control system. Thisdual-frequency capability will allow the MMR to realize the long-range target detection and all-weather performance offered by the S-band system with a precision tracking and targeting capability offered by an X-band array.Digital beamforming will be utilized to achieve the full potential of the X-band aperture through the use of dynamic array calibration, adaptive beam shaping, null steering, and improved target tracking. However, significant technical challenges exist inthe design of the X-band antenna aperture, T/R modules and DBF processor. A modular MMIC-based approach will be used and attempts will be made to reduce the hardware cost and complexity. This project will draw upon Applied Radar's on-going X-band DBF andT/R module development for another DoD customer.This array is designed to be used as an auxiliary array for the US Army's Multi-Mission Radar (MMR). A similar array could also be used for the Army's Future Combat System (FCS). The US Air Force is also very interested in DBF technology for largespace-based arrays as well as conformal aircraft and UAV arrays. The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) has also expressed interest in DBF technology for ground-based ballistic-missile detection."
Wideband Radar Digital Beamforming for Missile Defense Applications,DASG6003P0202,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2003,1,69673.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,President,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"Phased-array radar employing wideband digital beamforming (DBF) offers the potential for detecting and tracking incoming cruise missiles while defeating electronic countermeasures such as chaff, jamming and anti-reflective coatings. A wide instantaneousradar bandwidth is essential for defeating these threats, resulting in improved range resolution and target signature. Digital beamforming may be used to defeat radar jammers by forming precise beams and steering receive nulls in the direction of hostilejammers. DBF may be used on transmit to improve target-to-clutter ratio and reduce the spillover of transmit energy in undesired directions. This wideband DBF approach also lends itself to the use of digital transmit waveforms, which may be used as afurther technique for defeating countermeasures.This SBIR effort will leverage Applied Radar's on-going work in the DBF area and direct it towards missile defense applications of vital importance to US national security. Specifically, we will research ways of significantly improving the bandwidth overthe current state-of-the-art. Our existing MMIC-based analog front-ends are sufficiently wideband. The main bandwidth bottleneck is in the real-time digital data acquisition and DBF processing. We will investigate techniques that move the data acquisitioncloser to the radar antenna array, resulting in improved performance and reduced cost. DBF technology will enable low-cost phased-array radar with better performance than currently available analog phased-array systems. This wideband DBF phased-array radar is directly applicable to current MDA threats. Applied Radar Inc. also has on-goingDBF work with the US Air Force and US Army that could directly benefit from advancements in the wideband DBF processing. Other DoD applications include space-based radar and communication systems, UAV radars, and conformal aircraft antennas. There are alsoa number of commercial applications including cellular base station antennas, commercial satellite communications and ATC radars that would benefit from advancements in DBF array technology."
Sensorless Control of Linear Motors,N00178-04-C-3041,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2003,2,597567.00,Electro Standards Laboratories,36 western Industrial Drive,,Cranston,RI,02921-,No,No,No,Raymond Sepe,Vice President R&D,4019431164,rsepe@electrostandards.com,Raymond Sepe,Vice President R&D,4019431164,rsepe@electrostandards.com,"Sensorless linear motor control addresses the market need for cost effective and more reliable control of electric motors by removing the mechanical sensors from the feedback control system. The mechanical sensors are the weakest link in the controlsystem in terms of reliability and parts and maintenance costs, especially in demanding environments. For linear motors in particular, the position sensors are problematic since maintaining good resolution over long travel distances is both costly andphysically challenging. Previous work on sensorless control has focused on rotary motors yet still has not adequately addressed applications requiring wide speed range and repetitive transient operation. Little work has been done on linear motors whichpresent additional challenges due to nonlinear end effects. This program will mature sensorless controller technology to meet the operating demands of EMALS while developing enabling sensorless controller technology applicable to both rotary and linearmotor systems. Simulation and experimental techniques will be systematically applied to develop sensorless linear motor control that addresses transient performance, wide speed operating ranges, and changing external loads typical of an EMALS aircraftlaunch. Effective sensorless control technology for rotary and linear motors would benefit large volume markets such as automotive by reducing the cost of electric motors in vehicles and reducing maintenance costs. Demanding application evironments suchas those encountered in military or aviation industry would benefit by reducing system failure rates, thereby saving in costs and providing a competitive edge in performance."
Sensorless Control of Linear Motors,N00178-03-C-3042,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2003,1,99860.00,Electro Standards Laboratories,36 western Industrial Drive,,Cranston,RI,02921-,No,No,No,Raymond B. Sepe Jr.,Vice President of R&D,4019431164,rsepe@electrostandards.com,Raymond B. Sepe Jr,Vice President of R&D,4019431164,rsepe@electrostandards.com,"Closed-loop control techniques such as those based on inner loop vector current control are well suited to meeting these performance criteria. However, they require flux or armature position knowledge which is usually based on the use of mechanicalfeedback sensors. Mechanical feedback sensors for position or velocity are the most unreliable link in the control system when subjected to harsh conditions such as those found in EMALS. Sensorless control techniques seek to remove the mechanicalfeedback sensors while still maintaining the same level of control performance. This work will extend the state-of-the-art in sensorless control to linear motor system, and in particular to the demanding transient requirements of EMALS. Signal Injectionmethods, meausrement based methods, and advanced state estimators will be assessed and new hybrid sensorless controller for linear motors will be developed to meet or exceed the EMALS requirements. Development of a robust hybrid sensorless controller willhave immediate benefits for both linear motor and rotational motor systems. Servo grade performance without mechanical sensors improves reliability, survivability, and reduces the cost for closed loop control, making it applicable to a wide variety ofindustrial, commercial, and military applications. Prime candidates for this technology include linear motor aircraft launch and arrest systems, linear motor conveyor belt and transport systems for moving factory goods through a production or storagefacility, linear or rotary vehicle and craft propulsion systems, hybrid electric vehicles, fly-by-wire systems, more-electric aircraft, vehicles, and ships, electrification of mining and drilling equipment, and the machine tool and general automationindustry."
The PGREDS Simulation Toolkit for Population Modeling,N61339-03-C-0030,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2003,2,728607.00,"Gnosys, Inc.",198 Broadway,,Providence,RI,02903,No,No,Yes,James Panagos,President,6179248342,jpanagos@world.std.com,James Panagos,President,6179248342,jpanagos@world.std.com,"Recent events have put great demands on the simulation community for accurate simulation of mission rehearsal and training scenarios based on Support and Stability Operations (SASO), Operations Other Than War (OOTW), and Operations concerning AsymmetricThreat. Current mission rehearsal systems such as OneSAF and WARSIM do not satisfactorily model civilian and non-military combatant sides crucial in the outcome of these operations. Gnosys and SAIC propose to build PGREDS, a tool that will allow ascenario designer to bring to bear multi-disciplinary models (political, geographic, religious economic and demographic) to define civilian and non-military sides in scenario generation and execution systems. The strength of tools lies in itsincorporation of any number of lead-edge, interdisciplinary models, its ability to resolve multiple, potentially conflicting answers into a single, consistent resolution, and in its ability to easily interface with existing scenario generation andexecution systems. PGREDS will have applicability to military simulation as well as private industry population modeling needs.The anticipated results of the proposed approach are:1) The addition of realistic civilian and non-combatant sides in current simulation systems such as OneSAF or AEAS without rewriting them.2) The ability to include cutting-edge models for civilian and non-military sides from several different disciplines as they are developed.3) The definition of a framework by which newly developed models for civilian and non-military sides can be ?plugged? into leading edge, mission rehearsal systems easily.4) Making the process of employing methodologies from traditionally ignored fields of study (such as the social sciences) into leading edge simulation systems.5) The ability to run multiple, interdisciplinary models and vary the gravity of their results, enables a scenario designer to emphasize certain results over others (e.g. cultural over economic models) based on the specifics of a mission training scenario(such as location, history, commanders judgments, etc.)The strategy for commercialization is two-fold:1) As an add-on component to existing/emerging military simulation systems.2) As a stand-alone population simulation system for industrial enterprises.Current users of simulation systems would purchase PGREDS to help them conduct SASO, OOTW or Asymmetric threat scenarios. The system will be offered as an add-on at the completion of Phase II to two simulation systems: OneSAF Objective System (OOS) andthe Automated Exercise and Assessment System (AEAS).The target market for commercial applications is the industrial and governmental entities that wish to understand the likes and dislikes of population segments. It will also have value to organizations involved in public policy to predict the population?sresponse to certain stimuli ? this response may take the form of approval, position, or demeanor on a certain subject. A firm may also use PGREDS to gage population response to a marketing campaign. A local government may use the system to predict theapproval/ disapproval of the constituents on a certain legislative issue."
An Optical Fiber Probe for the Measurement of High Temperatures,DE-FG02-03ER83673,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2003,1,100000.00,"HOPE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.",185 East Main Rd.,,Little Compton,RI,02837,Yes,No,No,Edelgard Morse,,6173581035,tfmorse@bu.edu,Fei Luo,,6173581036,feiluo@bu.edu,"72255S03-I In the materials processing industry, melting raw materials and forming them into products involve high-temperature operations in which large amounts of energy are consumed. Sensors that work in these high-temperature industrial processing environments (which also have harsh chemicals, physical restrictions, and electromagnetic interference) will contribute significantly to minimizing waste energy and products. This project will develop a sensitive, high-temperature fiber optic probe that can withstand ultra-high processing temperatures, hostile environments, and is not subject to electromagnetic interference. In Phase I, 1/4 wave stacks (with alternating refractive indices) of high temperature oxides will be deposited on a sapphire or zirconia fiber coupled to a silica fiber. Light sent into the fiber from some large distance away will be reflected from this dielectric stack, and the shift in wavelength will be a direct measure of temperature. The probe will be tested at elevated temperatures and packaged so that a 40 cm length of sapphire fiber can be easily connected to a silica fiber. Algorithms for interpreting the optical signal and converting this into temperature have already been prepared. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described awardee: The new temperature measuring technique should be applicable to various industrial processes including glass melting and metal forming, as well as gas turbine temperature measurements."
Use of Site-Specific Recombination for Hybrid Rice Production,2003-33610-13107,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2003,1,75000.00,"HybriGene, Inc.",530 Liberty Lane,,West Kingston,RI,02892,No,No,No,Albert P. Kausch,Vice President,4018749900,akausch@hybrigene.com,Hong Luo,Senior Project Leader,4018749906,hongluo@hybrigene.com,"NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: Based on previous work we anticipate that this project will provide a proof of principle for hybrid rice production as an attractive alternative to the use of CMS in rice. We expect that this technology will become standard to the rice industry and integrated into worldwide breeding programs. We also anticipate that this technology will be used in a wide array of other cereal crop species, which like rice, are not architecturally predisposed to simple mechanical sterilization. It is highly likely that this same system would be extended to other crops of economic importance such as corn, wheat, etc."
Micro-ElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS) for Improving the Performance of Small Robotic Systems,DAAE07-03-C-L08,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2003,1,69997.00,"KVH INDUSTRIES, INC.",50 Enterprise Center,,Middletown,RI,02842 5279,No,No,No,Martin Kits van Heyningen,"President, CEO",4018473327,mkvh@kvh.com,Thomas Monte,Principal Investigator,7084443817,tmonte@kvh.com,"KVH proposes to micro-machine its proprietary ECore D-shaped polarization maintaining (PM) optical fiber to make an all-fiber micro-machined optical phase modulator that will enable Digital Signal Processing (DSP) Fiber Optic Gyro (FOG) instruments toachieve Northfinding requirement and cost and size reductions suitable for robAotic applications. Our goal at the completion of a follow-on Phase II contract would be to deliver a small, less than $5,000 DTUPC, Northfinding-capable GPS/INS device. Thisproposed system would be exceptionally well suited for ensuring precise navigation, orientation, stabilization, and North reference pointing on a robotics platform integrated with GPS but capable of independent operation during GPS outages. KVH proposes touse an open-loop FOG that employs a broadband, solid-state optical source, KVH ECore PM fiber components (couplers and polarizer), and a new, all-PM micro-machined fiber phase modulator. Potential commercial applications for the all-fiber micro-machinedoptical phase modulator and the resulting small, less than $5,000 DTUPC, Northfinding-capable GPS/INS device include: high-performance military land navigation systems for the Future Combat System, Interim and legacy Combat Vehicles; precision navigationgyros to the industrial/factory robot market; optical pointing systems where Earth-referenced orientation and precision stabilization is a requirement; and Automated high-end precision agriculture systems."
Ultra Tight Coupling for High Anti-Jam GPS/INS,DASG6003P0309,DOD,MDA,STTR,2003,1,69435.00,"KVH INDUSTRIES, INC.",50 Enterprise Center,,Middletown,RI,02842 5279,No,No,No,Martin Kits Van Heyni,"President, CEO",4018473327,mkvh@kvh.com,Kalyan Ganesan,VP Engineering,4018473327,kganesan@kvh.com,"In response to STTR Topic MDA03T-006, KVH Industries proposes to combine the advantages of short-term precision of an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and the long-term stability of the Global Positioning System (GPS). The resulting integrated GPS/IMUsystem would offer significant performance (e.g., reduced accuracy degradation) and cost benefits. By tightly coupling the GPS pseudorange and inertial sensor measurements within a single navigation filter, the inertial and GPS components cooperate on amuch higher level, providing a more robust and accurate navigation system. Additional robust satellite tracking can be provided via adaptive techniques in the antenna portion of the GPS receiver. KVH seeks to integrate raw inertial sensor measurements andGPS receiver code phase measurements directly within a single navigation filter. The advantages of this ultra-tightly coupled system include increased accuracy of the navigation solution, decreased complexity and cost of the navigation subsystem,improved robustness in an RF-challenged environment, and reduction in the size of the GPS/IMU navigator. We envision an ultra-tightly coupled system housed within a single cylindrical package that would include three rate sensors, three accelerationsensors, a GPS receiver, power conditioning, and a single navigation filter. Potential commercial application for the ultra-tightly coupled high anti-jam GPS/INS system include: integrated hybrid navigation and flight control systems for precision guidedmunitions and missiles; loitering weapons; stabilization and aiming of airborne pods for laser designation and aerial reconnaissance; airborne drones, targets, decoys; aircraft attitude and heading reference systems; a variety of Unmanned AutonomousVehicles (UAV); navigation and pointing applications for combat vehicles, COMINT, SIGINT, ELINT; combat service support; combat support vehicles; non-military land navigation, tracking and reporting systems; tracking of hazardous materials; fire and rescueservices, police, and even the general public."
Drilling 170 Micron Diameter Holes,F2960103C0192,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2003,1,0.00,LASER FARE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY GROUP,"LanRex Industrial Park, One Industrial Drive South",,Smithfield,RI,02917,No,No,No,Clifford G. Brockmyre,President,4012314400,cbrockmyre@laserfare.com,Paul F. Jacobs,VP - Technology,4012314400,pjacobs@laserfare.com,"Program Objectives:Laser Fare has two objectives for the proposed Phase II SBIR program. The first involves gathering sufficient statistically significant data, based upon diagnostic examination of a laser trepanned test plate from each of the following sub-contractors:LASAG, Spectra-Physics, Trumpf, Lumonics, and Convergent. Each test plate will include 12,288 laser trepanned holes through an Inconel 600 coupon 635 micrometers (¿m) thick.The second objective is the subsequent design, development, assembly, test, calibration, system qualification, and operational demonstration of a state-of-the-art Laser Hole Drilling System or ¿LHDS¿"
Drilling 170 Micron Diameter Holes,F2960103C0192,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2003,2,749821.00,LASER FARE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY GROUP,"LanRex Industrial Park, One Industrial Drive South",,Smithfield,RI,02917,No,No,No,Clifford G. Brockmyre,President,4012314400,cbrockmyre@laserfare.com,Paul F. Jacobs,VP - Technology,4012314400,pjacobs@laserfare.com,"Program Objectives:Laser Fare has two objectives for the proposed Phase II SBIR program. The first involves gathering sufficient statistically significant data, based upon diagnostic examination of a laser trepanned test plate from each of the following sub-contractors:LASAG, Spectra-Physics, Trumpf, Lumonics, and Convergent. Each test plate will include 12,288 laser trepanned holes through an Inconel 600 coupon 635 micrometers (¿m) thick.The second objective is the subsequent design, development, assembly, test, calibration, system qualification, and operational demonstration of a state-of-the-art Laser Hole Drilling System or ¿LHDS¿"
Physics-based Modeling of Acoustic Reverberation in the Littoral Environment,N00014-03-M-0267,DOD,NAVY,STTR,2003,1,70000.00,"MARINE ACOUSTICS, INC.",809 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,William White,Contracts Manager,4018477508,bill.white@marineacoustics.com,William T. Ellison,Chief Scientist,8605675491,WEMAI@aol.com,"Underwater acoustic modeling plays an essential role in the design, development, test, and operation of sonar systems. Active acoustic clutter can increase the sonar false alert rate or equivalently decrease the probability of detection/classification,and is a key issue in the development and utility of active sonar systems. The ability to predict reverberation and clutter is inseparably tied to other modeling tasks, including propagation modeling as well as boundary and volume characterization. Thesystem sonar equation method supports development of a virtual acoustic environment and can be used to produce time series data for examination of the reverberation and clutter influence in the sonar system's operating parameters. A multi-tiered approachwill be used, including 1) a review of current Sonar Equation approaches to the physical modeling of reverberation and clutter, 2) a review of existing propagation models in relation to scattering problem issues, 3) a review of existing reverberation andclutter related databases, 4) a discussion of virtual modeling issues, and 5) a summary assessment of the most viable approaches. The overall objective is to develop and incorporate physics-based clutter modeling approaches into current system sonarequation and propagation models used by the sonar designer, planner, and operator. The importance of this development is that such models do not now exist and would be of paramount value to all aspects of underwater sound research from sonar design tomission planning and assessment. The model would have broad application throughout the Navy at every level from basic research to sonar design and employment. We would anticipate that it would have consideration as an OAML product. A Phase II effortwould be for further development of the model, and Phase III would be for delivery and deployment of the technology to the naval community, while exploring dual-use in the oil and gas exploration industries."
Immortalized Pig Hepatocytes: A Drug Discovery Model,1R43CA096458-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2003,1,139314.00,"MULTICELL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.","MULTICELL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.",701 GEORGE WASHIGNTON HIGHWAY,LINCOLN,RI,02865,No,No,No,,,4017387560,,Ronald A. Faris,,4017387560,FARIS@MULTICLTECHNOLOGIES.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Drug-drug interactions can occur in a
multiple drug regimen, where one drug interferes with the metabolism of
another, leading to dangerous, unpredicted, and potentially fatal
concentrations of medication. Unfortunately, a significant number of such drug
interactions are first recognized during clinical trials. This nonrecognition
of drug metabolic interactions is due in part to interspecies differences
between rodents and man. A recent FDA report estimated that up to 20 percent of
toxicity and potential drug interactions are misidentified in rat assays
because of interspecies differences. Most drugs are metabolized by the hepatic
cytochrome P450 enzymes, and a non-primate species most reflective of human CYP
regulation is the pig. MultiCell Associates recently developed an immortalized
porcine hepatocyte cell line designated HepLiu. The purpose of this Phase I
project is to determine if HepLiu and its MSX resistant progeny, HL-MSX, can be
employed as a screening bioassay to reproducibly detect inducers and inhibitors
of human CYPs. This will be accomplished by assaying 24 compounds, whose
effects on CYP3A4 and 1A activity have been well documented in humans. A
positive correlation will provide the scientific basis for the long term goal
of this project: to develop a predictive and economical assay based on the
HepLiu porcine hepatocyte cell line, for screening the CYP induction and
inhibition potential of new chemical entities in drug discovery."
Individualized Expert Systems for Weight Management,4R44HL070549-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2003,2,1002449.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4018744100,JANICEPRO@AOL.COM,Sara S. Johnson,,4018745612,SJOHNSON@PROCHANGE.COM,"DESCRIPTION (Provided by applicant): The prevalence of overweight and obesity
has increased dramatically over the last two decades. Overweight and obesity,
the second leading preventable cause of death, poses a major public health
challenge in that it increases the risk of chronic diseases, including coronary
heart disease, and all-cause mortality. Clinic-based programs for weight
management are costly and serve only a small percentage of individuals.
Population-based behavior change programs are needed to reach larger
percentages of at risk individuals more cost-effectively. Preliminary research
on the application of the Transtheoretical Model (TTM) to weight management
suggests that the model has the potential to guide the development of effective
multiple-behavior interventions. Phase I of this Fast-Track proposal involves
the customization and feasibility testing of a stage-matched, individualized,
interactive intervention based on the TTM. Feasibility includes proactively
recruiting 60 percent of eligible participants (n=250) to participate in a
randomized clinical trial and evaluating acceptability of the intervention
materials. Computerized expert system interventions and stage-matched manuals
delivered proactively to entire populations can have unprecedented impacts on
the targeted health behaviors as well as weight. Using the TTM as the basis
will provide the theoretical framework that experts have indicated is necessary
to develop more effective and cost-effective interventions.
PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION:
The proposed TTM based expert system weight management intervention is capable of
high recruitment rates, accurate assessment, and individualized interventions that have
the ability to create high impact on a population basis. We envision such interactive
technologies for entire populations delivered at relatively low costs through the mail or
over the Internet or an Intranet. Commercial applications include marketing to healthcare
providers, namely managed care organizations, and employers who share the burden of
healthcare expenses."
Multi-media Obesity Prevention Program for Adolescents,1R43HL074482-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2003,1,140764.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4018744100,,Sara S. Johnson,,4018745612,SJOHNSON@PROCHANGE.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Obesity and overweight are of epidemic proportions and has almost tripled in the past two decades for adolescents. Since adolescence is the period of greatest risk for developing adult obesity, we propose to develop a pilot version of a multi-media interactive computer program, Teen-wise, which promotes the adoption and maintenance of health behaviors related to the prevention of overweight and obesity. Teen-wise will be a unique and innovative product that delivers TTM-based tailored communications to facilitate not only education, but also behavior change using expert system technology in a school setting. Innovative features will include the minimal class time and teacher preparation needed to deliver the program and use of evidence-based approaches to behavior change that can have substantial impacts on health behavior. This application will develop a pilot version of Teen-wise that will target physical activity, television time, and fruit and vegetable consumption. Its acceptability and feasibility will be evaluated with high school students and with teachers, school administrators, and content experts. The results of the trial will determine the feasibility of submitting a Phase II proposal."
An Expert System to Reduce Depression in Primary Care,4R44MH060522-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2003,2,936363.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice Prochaska,,4018744100,JANICEPRO@AOL.COM,Deborah A. Levesque,,4018744106,LEVESQUE@ETAL.URI.EDU,"A variety of effective interventions exist for people who seek help for depression. However, there is a lack of effective interventions for individuals who do not seek help or follow through with treatment referrals. We propose to fill this gap in services by developing and testing a Transtheoretical Model-based intervention that will be delivered proactively, on a population basis, to primary care patients who are experiencing symptoms of depression but are not currently involved in treatment. It is the first intervention for depression that is appropriate for individuals in all stages of change-not merely the minority who are prepared to take action. In Phase I of this Fast Track Initiative, the aims are to norm TTM measures, develop the TTM interventions, and determine the feasibility of this approach by assessing study recruitment rates and reactions to the intervention materials. Primary care patients who screen positive for mild to moderate depression and are not involved in treatment will complete surveys for measurement norming (n=100) or participate in a pilot-test of the intervention materials (n=50). If feasibility conditions are met, we will conduct a randomized clinical trial in Phase II to assess the efficacy of the expert system intervention for depression. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS: Depression is a costly illness for health care organizations, disability insurers, and employers because of increased health service utilization, disability claims, and lost productively among depressed individuals. An effective, low-cost expert system that can reduce the prevalence of depression on a population basis has significant commercial potential."
An Expert System to Reduce Depression in Primary Care,4R44MH060522-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2003,1,0.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice Prochaska,,4018744100,JANICEPRO@AOL.COM,Deborah A. Levesque,,4018744106,LEVESQUE@ETAL.URI.EDU,"A variety of effective interventions exist for people who seek help for depression. However, there is a lack of effective interventions for individuals who do not seek help or follow through with treatment referrals. We propose to fill this gap in services by developing and testing a Transtheoretical Model-based intervention that will be delivered proactively, on a population basis, to primary care patients who are experiencing symptoms of depression but are not currently involved in treatment. It is the first intervention for depression that is appropriate for individuals in all stages of change-not merely the minority who are prepared to take action. In Phase I of this Fast Track Initiative, the aims are to norm TTM measures, develop the TTM interventions, and determine the feasibility of this approach by assessing study recruitment rates and reactions to the intervention materials. Primary care patients who screen positive for mild to moderate depression and are not involved in treatment will complete surveys for measurement norming (n=100) or participate in a pilot-test of the intervention materials (n=50). If feasibility conditions are met, we will conduct a randomized clinical trial in Phase II to assess the efficacy of the expert system intervention for depression. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS: Depression is a costly illness for health care organizations, disability insurers, and employers because of increased health service utilization, disability claims, and lost productively among depressed individuals. An effective, low-cost expert system that can reduce the prevalence of depression on a population basis has significant commercial potential."
Predictive value of inter-alpha inhibitors in sepsis,1R43GM068171-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2003,1,131233.00,"PROTHERA BIOLOGICS, LLC",551 Warren Avenue,,EAST PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Yow-pin Lin,,4013012056,YOW-PIN_LIM_MD@BROWN.EDU,Yowpin Lim,,4014382949,YOW-PIN_LIM_MD@BROWN.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant):
The primary goal of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of utilizing Inter-alpha Inhibitor as a novel predictive marker for adult and newborn sepsis. IaIp are natural serine protease inhibitors found in relatively high concentration in human adult and newborn plasma (ranges between 600-1200 mg/L). IaIp have been implicated to play roles in inflammation, wound healing and cancer metastasis. The high level of IaIp circulating normally in plasma indicates that the proteins are essential for life and no person with complete absence of IaIp has ever been detected. Our preliminary results demonstrate a significant decrease of plasma IaIp levels in plasma of adult patients with severe sepsis and septic shock and the decrease correlates with the mortality suggesting the potential clinical utility of IaIp as a predictive marker in sepsis. A similar decrease of IaIp levels was found also in clinically proven neonatal sepsis. Furthermore, in our animal studies using a polymicrobial sepsis rat model of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), we have demonstrated the beneficial effects of IaIp in maintaining hemodynamic stability, preventing organ injury, and improving survival during the progression of sepsis in adult animals. Taken together, the data strongly suggest the involvement of IaIp in the pathogenesis of sepsis. In this Phase I application, we will develop a standardized and validated immunoassay that is reliable and capable of accurately determining IaIp levels in biological fluids. This validated assay will be used to confirm our initial findings that IaIp levels in plasma constitute a valuable diagnostic, prognostic and theranostic marker for adult and neonatal sepsis."
AGILE Sonobuoy Launcher,N68335-03-C-0167,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2003,1,69999.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,Brian W. Gilligan,President,4018472260,gilligan@seacorp.com,David A. Lussier,Principal Systems Enginee,4018472260,dlussier@seacorp.com,"Current helicopter sonobuoy launchers are complex, heavy and will not meet future requirements for mission versatility. Because of the complexity of the launcher and its pneumatic subsystem, the launcher has many points of potential failure; itsreliability is poor. Further, as in other pneumatic systems involving stored compressed air, the system is subject to vagaries of pressure which can result in uneven or incomplete expulsion of stores. This project will examine the feasibility of an"
Intelligent Test Data Analysis Technology (IT-DAT),N00421-03-P-0758,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2003,1,69945.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,Brian Gilligan,President,4018472260,gilligan@seacorp.com,David Cadorette,Principal Systems Enginee,4018472260,dcadorette@seacorp.com,"Modern weapon and aircraft control systems are software intensive, containing many complex internal and external interfaces. Accurate testing is vital to ensure that the system is functioning properly and will meet all operational requirements. For themost part, current testing focuses on components and subsystems; it is labor intensive and relies heavily on the subjective judgment of expert personnel for an overall system perspective. There are few automated systems to aid in the collection andinterpretation of software data, and the few systems that do exist still rely on the interpretation of data by system experts. This project will develop a more-thorough test and evaluation process, which will also be more efficient. The project willutilize the latest in artificial intelligence techniques to automatically analyze data collected during testing, thereby reducing reliance on error-prone manual data analysis. The project will incorporate a database archiving all test related data andsystem artifacts, providing a query capability for data analysts to review system requirements, identify trends in data, and compare test collected data against historical data. The project will use proven technologies in the collection and archiving ofdata, leveraging existing tools such as the SEA CORP SEAHAWK, TOWERS, and ADCAS tools. Intelligent Test Data Analysis Technology will improve the fidelity of the testing of complex systems. Through increased automation, this technology will also reducemanpower requirements and shorten the time required for testing resulting in savings and improved operational turnaround times. Concentrating first on complex weapon and aircraft control systems, the application of this technology has great spilloverpotential in the commercial market. As the reliance on software and external and internal interface becomes more pervasive in manufacturing, engineering, financial and other sectors, the demand for expert system test methods will increase as well."
N/A,N44MH032057-000,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2003,2,312334.00,"SENTION, INC.",1 RICHMOND SQUARE,,PROVIDENCE,RI,02906,No,No,No,,,4012727177,,Kjesten Wiig,,,,N/A
N/A,N44MH032057-000,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2003,1,0.00,"SENTION, INC.",1 RICHMOND SQUARE,,PROVIDENCE,RI,02906,No,No,No,,,4012727177,,Kjesten Wiig,,,,N/A
"Development of a Single Component, Zero Volatile Organic Compound, Chemical Agent Resistant Primer",M67854-03-C-5129,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2003,1,70000.00,"SPECTRUM COATINGS LABORATORIES, INC.",217 Chapman Street,,Providence,RI,02905,No,No,No,Earl T. Faria Jr.,President / Technical Dir,4017814847,paintman97@aol.com,Earl T. Faria Jr.,President / Technical Dir,4017814847,paintman97@aol.com,"Spectrum Coating Laboratories, Inc. proposes to develop a single component, zero VOC primer using moisture cured resins and diluents and evaluate the feasibility of these materials for use as primers chemical agent resistant coatings systems. Spectrumwill synthesize the resins and diluents, conduct a pigment compatibility study and characterize the resultant formulations. The proposed materials and formulations are based on Spectrum's chemical agent resistant primers currently in use by the USMC.This approach is expected to reduce the cost of development, and expedite the commercialization of this technology. The primer requires no specialized equipment and allows for rapid change of color in the field This material can be transitioned intoSpectrum's Commercial/Industrial coatings and Maintenance/Architectural coatings to produce single component, zero VOC materials. The result is a series of environmentally friendly coatings for use in a wide variety of applications. These coatings willallow both the federal Government and private industries to meet current and future regulations regarding VOC levels for coating facilities."
"Development of a Single Component, Zero Volatile Organic Compound, Chemical Agent Resistant Coating",M67854-03-C-5127,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2003,1,70000.00,"SPECTRUM COATINGS LABORATORIES, INC.",217 Chapman Street,,Providence,RI,02905,No,No,No,Earl T. Faria Jr.,President / Technical Dir,4017814847,paintman97@aol.com,Earl T. Faria Jr.,President / Technical Dir,4017814847,paintman97@aol.com,"Spectrum Coating Laboratories, Inc. proposes to develop a single component, zero VOC topcoat using moisture cured resins and diluents and evaluate the feasibility of these materials for use in chemical agent resistant coatings. Spectrum will synthesizethe resins and diluents, conduct a pigment compatibility study and characterize the resultant formulations. The proposed materials and formulations are based on Spectrum's chemical agent resistant topcoats currently in use by the USMC. This approach isexpected to reduce the cost of development, and expedite the commercialization of this technology. The coating requires no specialized equipment and allows for rapid change of color in the field. This material can be transitioned into Spectrum'sCommercial/Industrial coatings and Maintenance/Architectural coatings to produce single component, zero VOC materials. The result is a series of environmentally friendly coatings for use in a wide variety of applications. These coatings will allow boththe federal Government and private industries to meet current and future regulations regarding VOC levels for coating facilities."
New Low Cost Resins Systems,N00014-03-M-0303,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2003,1,69673.00,"VERDANT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.","310 Bourne Ave, Box 15, Bldg. 50",,East Providence,RI,02916,No,No,No,Sean Holt,"President, CEO",4014905738,sean.holt@verdantresins.com,Patrick Mack,Chief Technical Officer,4014905738,patrick.mack@verdantresins.com,Develop and test unsaturated resins that incorporate unique low cost chemistries that provide for greatly improved fire performance without the use of halogens or bromines. These resin systems are to be compatible with traditional open mold manufacturingprocesses and closed processes including vacuum infusion. These systems would be low cost alternatives to phenolics and epoxies with reduced processing costs. The commercial applications would range from public transportation and industrial applicationsto aviation applications for commercial aircraft interior components.
Development of Onboard Power Sources for Interceptor Missiles,F3361503032371,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2003,2,749660.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Alexander Karpinski,General Manager,8605991100,karpinski@yardney.com,Roberto Serenyi,Principal Investigator,8605991100,rserenyi@yardney.com,"This SBIR Phase II program is proposed as a continuation of the Phase I effort, which demonstrated improved power density of primary reserve silver-zinc batteries, particularly those used in interceptor ballistic missiles, by a factor of 3 to 5. Thisobjective was achieved by advancing the state-of-the-art of bipolar electrodes and the"
A Phase I SBIR Program for an Ultra-lightweight Lithium Air Battery for Unmanned Air Vehicles,F08630-03-C-0124,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2003,1,99171.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,"General Manager, Lithion,",8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arthur Dobley,Research Chemist,8605991100,adobley@lithion.com,"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will advance an efficient and lightweight power plant for Unmanned Air Vehicles by developing an ultra-lightweight lithium air battery coupled with an electric motor. Specifically the project advanceslithium air batteries by focusing on an efficient air cathode structure with an increased oxygen diffusion rate. Typical problems are air cathodes with low oxygen diffusion rates and water contamination. By improving the structure of the air cathode andusing a non-aqueous proprietary thin film composite polymer electrolyte the battery system will greatly improve. The proposed air cathode structure is a carbon composite with a binding agent and metal catalysts. We propose to increase the oxygendiffusion rate of the cathode structure by investigating different carbon morphologies, varied surface areas, and a double-sided electrode to greatly increase the reactive surface area. Metal catalysts are incorporated to enhance the oxygen reductionkinetics within the cathode structure. Yardney's experience and technologies in the zinc-air and Al-air power sources will be adopted in the design of the new air cathode structure. Advantages of the proposed lithium air battery include a high energydensity, ultra-lightweight, safe design, environmentally friendly components, and an increased oxygen diffusion rate cathode. The proposed lithium air battery could be used as a high energy density primary battery for powering an electric motor in anUnmanned Air Vehicle. This air battery would actually consume oxygen from the atmosphere making it very light in weight. Commercially the new air cathode structure could be adapted to improve the capabilities of all metal air batteries. Metal airbatteries offer high energy in a highly portable package. These batteries have the potential to power camping equipment, model airplanes or any equipment where air is present."
"Development of a Novel, Thin Film Lithium-ion Battery Technology",DASG6003C0073,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2003,2,749978.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,"General Manager, Lithion,",8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Arjan Giaya,R & D Scientist,8605991100,agiaya@lithion.com,"Lithium-ion batteries offer several advantages over other rechargeable batteries, including high specific energy, high energy density and good cycle life. These advantages have made lithium ion batteries a good choice for many commercial applications.Growing demand for these batteries will drive the research and development of lithium ion technology further on. Additionally, non-commercial market presents new challenges for lithium ion technology, such as improving the charge/discharge rate, longercycle life, wider temperature range for LIB operation, etc. This proposed study will address two issues: improving specific energy to above 150 Wh/kg and improving specific power to above 2 kW/kg. The former will be achieved by replacing the standardanode material with a silicon based material. Developing and applying a new separator will accomplish the latter. These two major improvements to our technology will significantly improve the cell performance in the area of power and energy density, aswell as safety, cycle life, operating temperature range."
Innovative Manufacturing Processes,N0016403C6010,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2003,1,69926.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,General Manager,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Rob Gitzendanner,Senior Development Scient,8605991100,rgitz@lithion.com,"Yardney, Inc. proposes a program to develop, test and deliver high-performance, prismatic Lithium-ion batteries, to demonstrate the manufacturing capability and reliability of such batteries for space applications. The proposed battery will include asophisticated microprocessor-based intelligent battery management system. The electronics will provide full cell monitoring and balancing during charge, protection circuitry against over or under voltage, current and temperature, and Battery State ofCharge and State of Health calculation, monitoring and reporting. The modular design of the proposed electronics package makes it easily adaptable to multiple battery configurations, adding and removing capabilities as dictated by the program and able toeasily support much larger and higher voltage battery systems. Further, the proprietary control algorithm within the system efficiently charges the battery using any suitable current-limited power source, thereby allowing the seamless integration of theLithium-ion battery into most existing applications without costly electronics redesign. The 28V, 30Ah battery proposed mimics that already successfully developed and qualified for the MSP01 Mars Lander Program, as well as the battery intended for use inthe XSS-11 satellite system. This cross-utilization of the proven cell technology will allow for side-by-side comparisons of performance parameters measured on the ground with those found in launched systems. Manufacturability, reproducibility, reliabilityand affordability of space-rated Lithium-ion batteries will be demonstrated through this program. Demonstrate manufacturability, reliability and affordability of Lithium-ion battery systems for commercial and military aerospace applications. Enhancementof battery service and performance utilizing adaptable, modular electronics control system."
Aluminum-Air Fuel Cell/Battery Research,N00014-03-M-0388,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2003,1,69924.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Alexander Karpinski,General Manager,8605991100,karpinski@yardney.com,Paul Paterno,Principal Investigator,8605991100,ppaterno@yardney.com,"The dismounted Marine requires portable high energy density power sources to power radio communications equipment. The power source should be lightweight to maintain the mobility and effectiveness during combat. Current power needs are met with the LiSO2(BA-5590) primary batteries but there is a need for portable power sources with even higher energy densities. A system which offers a higher energy density is the Aluminum-Air semi-fuel cell system. This Al-Air system can deliver an energy density of 20%higher than the LiSO2 system and allows for transportation in the dry state. This reduces the weight of the power source system further and the system can be activated in the field by the addition of water, when needed.Although this Al-Air system displays a high practical energy density, the theoretical energy density is significantly higher. Through optimized modifications to the Aluminum-alloy anode, the patented oxygen reducing air cathode, electrolyte and to thenecessary processes, it is possible to increase the practical energy density by approximately 10%. The goal of this program is to extend the capability of the Al-air semi-fuel system for use in a wide array of DoD and commercial equipment applications. An Aluminum-air semi-fuel cell power source will provide the DoD with a reliable, safe, environmentally friendly cell with a high-energy storage capability. Other potential commercial applications include portable consumer electronic equipment in thesafety supply market."
Advanced High Energy Batteries,DAAD17-03-C-005,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2003,1,69502.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,"General Manager, Lithion",8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Boris Ravdel,Research Scientist,8605991100,bravdel@lithion.com,"Lithium-ion batteries containing organic solvent have been reported to combust and explode. To reduce the flammability of the electrolyte, one uses flame retardant (FR) components as additives the to solution. Among the others, the FR-additives containingphosphorus and nitrogen were found as very effective.The research seeks to investigate new P-N containing flame retarding additives. The proposed studies will include the synthesis of these additives, determination of the electrochemical properties of lithium-ion battery electrolytes containing them, studiesof flame retardant properties of the additives, and testing the batteries with the electrolytes. Lithium-ion batteries combine high energy and power with the potential for extended cycle life needed for many applications. However, in order to make them a practical reality, especially for high-capacity batteries, a safety issue is of great importance.The proposed program is aimed at achieving this by the decreasing of the combustion danger of lithium-ion batteries."
INTERACTIVE TECHNOLOGIES TO MODIFY CANCER RISK BEHAVIORS,2R44CA088095-03,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,2,1000968.00,"ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC",ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES,1210 PONTIAC AVE,CRANSTON,RI,02920,No,No,No,Edward Aberger,,4014672223,,David K. Ahern,,4014672223,DAHERN@THEABACUSGROUP.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant)The major goals of this revised, SBIR Phase II application for the combined R25/R44 mechanism to complete development of a multi-media, cancer risk behavior modification intervention and to conduct a randomized controlled trial with low income patients and their primary care physicians to assess its impact. The prototype system of tools created in the Phase I is based on the ""paper product"" developed in the R25. In Phase II we will refine and complete development of the prototype tool created in Phase I. Specific aims in Phase II are to : (1) produce the functional beta system of tools according to the functional and technical specifications created in Phase I; (2) test the impact of the system of tools in a randomized controlled clinical trial on (a) the primary outcome for which the study is statistically powered, i.e., physical activity; (b) outcomes for diet and smoking patterns; (c) secondary outcomes including stages of change and the quantity and quality of counseling about cancer risk factor reduction provided by health care providers to their patients who have a scheduled return visit within the 3-month study period; (3) assess the degree to which the system of tools was used by patients and providers, and to assess ratings of satisfaction and perceived value by the various stakeholders (i.e., patients, physicians, and potential purchasers); (4) refine and update the preliminary Product Development Plan, and (5) incorporate the completed product into Abacus Technologies' suite of Technology Solutions products and commence product distribution in Phase III."
INTERACTIVE TECHNOLOGIES TO MODIFY CANCER RISK BEHAVIORS,2R44CA088095-03,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,1,0.00,"ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC",ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES,1210 PONTIAC AVE,CRANSTON,RI,02920,No,No,No,Edward Aberger,,4014672223,,David K. Ahern,,4014672223,DAHERN@THEABACUSGROUP.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant)The major goals of this revised, SBIR Phase II application for the combined R25/R44 mechanism to complete development of a multi-media, cancer risk behavior modification intervention and to conduct a randomized controlled trial with low income patients and their primary care physicians to assess its impact. The prototype system of tools created in the Phase I is based on the ""paper product"" developed in the R25. In Phase II we will refine and complete development of the prototype tool created in Phase I. Specific aims in Phase II are to : (1) produce the functional beta system of tools according to the functional and technical specifications created in Phase I; (2) test the impact of the system of tools in a randomized controlled clinical trial on (a) the primary outcome for which the study is statistically powered, i.e., physical activity; (b) outcomes for diet and smoking patterns; (c) secondary outcomes including stages of change and the quantity and quality of counseling about cancer risk factor reduction provided by health care providers to their patients who have a scheduled return visit within the 3-month study period; (3) assess the degree to which the system of tools was used by patients and providers, and to assess ratings of satisfaction and perceived value by the various stakeholders (i.e., patients, physicians, and potential purchasers); (4) refine and update the preliminary Product Development Plan, and (5) incorporate the completed product into Abacus Technologies' suite of Technology Solutions products and commence product distribution in Phase III."
ElectronicTextile Antennas,DAAH0102CR128,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2002,1,98985.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,President,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"""Current man portable antennas are heavy, rigid, telescoping or umbrella like contraptions, which limit the mobility and speed of a deployed unit. We propose to improve the weight, storage size, and ease of deployment of a portable antenna through the useof electronic textiles as described in this proposal. Planar antennas have been manufactured on thin films and rolled into position, however a rigid mounting structure must be used to protect the film and to keep it in place. The unique ability of fabricto drape, and take any form repeatedly without damage, will be the key to enabling next generation conformable antennas. Incorporating conductive fibers into the weave of the cloth without losing the flexibility of the cloth requires non-contact ""induced""current interconnects. Such induced interconnects can be created at radio frequencies by wires oriented broadside and spaced < 1/20-th of a wavelength apart. With typical fabric densities of 30 threads-per-inch such interconnects can be created up to 8 GHzin a woven pattern using standard textile manufacturing processes. This proposal will outline a practical approach to designing a woven RF patch antenna array in the 1.5 GHz band using conductive threads. Candidate applications for RF e-textiles are in theareas of large area, flexible, and conformable antennas arrays. While the target application is a portable S-Band Satellite communications antenna, there are a vast number of militar"
X-Band Multi-Channel Digital Beamforming Transmit Array Employing both Waveform Agility and Spatial Diversity,F19628-02-C-0071,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2002,1,99971.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,President,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President,4012950062,whw@appliedradar.com,"""A multi-channel transmit array is to be developed for high-speed digital communications and radar applications. Digital beamforming (DBF) will be combined with direct digital synthesis (DDS) waveform generation to achieve a system capable of using bothwaveform diversity and spatial diversity. Multiple simultaneous transmit beams will be generated that may be configured and scanned digitally. Using DBF, the beamwidths, beam-shapes, scan locations and null locations of the multiple beams are allcontrolled digitally and may be adjusted rapidly for example to follow a moving target, suppress a hostile jammer or to reduce multi-path. The DDS technique will be used to produce various transmit waveforms for high-speed secure communications atrelatively low transmit power levels over a noisy channel. Digital control of the DDS synthesizer allows rapid switching between various communications schemes (CDMA, TDMA, FSK, spread-spectrum, etc.). The synthesizer can also be programmed to producevarious radar waveforms. The DBF and DDS techniques together combine to produce an extremely versatile transmit array that can serve a great many users and applications. We focus here on the development of an X-band communication system; however, thewaveform generation techniques and array architecture developed here may be used in applications ranging in frequency from L-band through EHF. A satellite-based or aircraft-based DBF/DDS communication array woul"
Naval Device Applications of Relaxor Piezoelectric Single Crystals,N00014-02-M-0180,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2002,1,68512.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David A. Brown,President,4014331100,SoundAdvice@aol.com,David A. Brown,Director,4012452282,SoundAdvice2@aol.com,"""We propose a directional, broadband, highly efficient underwater acoustic transducer using a baffled cylinder made out from piezoelectric single crystals. The prospective application areas will be for an underwater acoustic modem communication andAutonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV), in which high efficiency of the transducer system is required due to the limited energy availability (battery) and the size of the transducer needs to be sufficiently small to fit the relatively small housing spaceand delivery system. In a multi-user communication network, a directional transducer may be desired in order to focus the acoustic beam in a particular direction in order to reduce the interference of communication signals and to increase thesignal-to-noise ratio.The significance of this project will be the reduction of transducer dimension and broadening of operational frequency range by exploiting the low sound speed and high coupling coefficient of piezoelectric single crystals. The transducer must be small andbroadband but highly efficient as it will be delivered with a A-size sonobuoy and will have limited battery energy. Utilization of piezoelectric single crystals will realize this smaller dimension, broaden the bandwidth and prolong the lifetime of thedevice in comparison with conventional piezoelectric materials e.g. PZT-4, PZT-5A or PZT-8. The Navy will gain a very broadband, leight weight directional source that is highly efficient"
Naval Device Applications of Relaxor Piezoelectric Single Crystals,N00014-02-M-0185,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2002,1,70000.00,BTech Acoustics LLC,17 Surrey Rd.,,Barrington,RI,02806-,No,No,No,David A. Brown,Director,4014331100,SoundAdvice@aol.com,David A. Brown,Director,4014331100,SoundAdvice2@aol.com,"""This proposal is for the development of a high sensitivity pressure gradient acoustic motion sensor (accelerometer) of the flexural plate type using piezoelectric single crystals. The pressure gradient acoustic motion sensor is based on flexural plateelements operating below resonance in the accelerometer mode. The high piezoelectric coefficients for single crystals is ideal for increasing the sensitivity and low frequency range of the proposed sensor. A three axis device with combined pressure sensor(hydrophone) is proposed to realize a ""Vector Sensor"" suitable to meet all performance goals of the Low Frequency Bow Array (LFBA) program. Variants of the proposed sensor are also applicable to conformal arrays, hull arrays, and seismic monitoring.Improved pressure gradient sensors of the fixed diffraction type are also demonstrated. The inherent problem for pressure gradient sensors with conventional materials is the lack of sensitivity at low frequencies. This application of single crystals (SCr) seems to be ideal in the sense that the material's beneficial properties are clearlyexploited and its disadvantages are avoided. Thus, high coupling coefficient keff is exploited and the small sound velocity makes it possible to effectively use the trilaminar plate design with passive materials having a small Young's modulus for strainenhancement. The improved sensor may be used in a Low Frequency Bow Array (LFBA). Other applications in"
Learning-Based Source Separation Methodologies Applicable to the Multiple Target Problem,DAAE30-02-C-1064,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2002,1,70000.00,Coprime,P.O. Box 2010,,Pawtucket,RI,02861,No,Yes,No,Jose E. Lopez,CEO,5082293390,lopez@coprime.com,Jose E. Lopez,CEO,5082293390,lopez@coprime.com,"""Coprime proposes to investigate the applicability of learning-based source separation methodologies to the problem of multiple targets in a complex acoustic environment. The Phase I effort will focus on identifying viable learning-based source separationalgorithms specifically tuned to the multiple combat vehicle scenario. A prototype architecture will be developed and numerical software rapidly developed in order to test the performance of the learning-based algorithms developed on multiple combatvehicle data sets. Coprime proprietary Vehicle Signal Analysis Environment and Vehicle Monitor Simulation Environment will be employed to assist in evaluating the performance of the learning-based source separation algorithms developed under this Phase I.Anticipated benefits include robust, low cost, software-based, modular algorithms that can be rapidly integrated into a wide variety of passive, acoustic monitors used in sophisticated surveillance systems."""
Simulation Toolkit for Multiple Forces and Sides,N61339-02-C-0029,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2002,1,118500.00,"Gnosys, Inc.",198 Broadway,,Providence,RI,02903,No,No,Yes,James Panagos,President,6179248342,jpanagos@world.std.com,James Panagos,President,6179248342,jpanagos@world.std.com,"""Today's constructive simulations do not possess the ability to represent multiple Forces and Sides with the flexibility required for today's threat and coalition forces. Gnosys, with SAIC as a team partner will leverage its over 10 years of experience inconstructive simulations to develop a toolkit for Multiple Forces and Sides that offers users the option of combining new characteristics which until now, only programmers could accomplish. The Gnosys team will design and build a Java/C++ Windows-basedprototype simulation toolkit in support of WARSIM and embedded in OneSAF that allows novel configurations of Forces and Sides. By using a Graphical User Interface (GUI), the non-programmer user can specify combinations of tactics techniques andprocedures, task organizations and weapons platforms. The anticipated results of the proposed approach are:1)Greatly improve the ability to represent multiple Forces and Sides not only for WARSIM but also for many other simulations.2)The creation of new Tactics, Techniques and Procedures, Task Organizations and Platforms rapidly by state of the art graphical user interfaces (GUIs) at the appropriate level of detail for the echelon by non-programmers.3)Reduction in labor for encoding required to provide simulations with multiple Forces and Sides.4)Reuse of legacy code in expanding Forces and Sides representations.5)Reduce the technical risks, costs and time associated with Computer Generated Forc"
Drilling 170 Micron Diameter Holes,F29601-02-C-0121,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2002,1,99672.00,LASER FARE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY GROUP,"LanRex Industrial Park, One Industrial Drive South",,Smithfield,RI,02917,No,No,No,Thomas McDonald,Vice President,4017385777,tmcdonald@laserfare.com,Paul Jacobs,Vice President - Technolo,4017385777,pjacobs@laserfare.com,"""The U.S. Air Force must develop the ability to rapidly drill many millions of 170 micron diameter holes through metal plates, to form injector heads as part of its ABL program. The holes must be high quality, non-invasive to the surrounding metal, and theprocess must be less labor and time intensive than present methods. As discussed in this proposal the physics of material removal with pulsed lasers is uniquely different for short pulse laser drilling (pulse duration < 20 ps) than for the more commonlong pulse laser drilling ( > 20 ps.). During the proposed Phase I program we will perform analytical modeling of both long pulse and short pulse laser systems. Also, we will down-select the best candidate laser(s), based upon anticipated drilling speedand hole quality. Next, we will assemble/locate prototype candidate laser systems. This prototype system(s) will drill 300 holes in each of three 316 stainless steel plates, 0.2 mm, 1.0 mm, and 5 mm thick. Statistically significant mean value andstandard deviation values of : (1) hole drilling time, (2) inlet diameter, (3) inlet eccentricity, (4) outlet diameter, (5) outlet eccentricity, and (6) surface roughness will be demonstrated in Phase I. The ability to drill precise, high aspect ratioholes at a highly productive, cost efficient rate is not only critical to the ABL lasing process, but it is also an enabling capability for other applications such as in the filtration industry"
"MAMMALIAN HEPATOCYTES, A SOURCE OF THERAPEUTIC PROTEINS",1R43GM066480-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,1,133586.00,"MULTICELL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.","MULTICELL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.",701 GEORGE WASHIGNTON HIGHWAY,LINCOLN,RI,02865,No,No,No,,,4017387560,TRENKLER@MULTICELLTECHNOLOGIES.COM,Ronald A. Faris,,4017387560,FARIS@MULTICELLTECHNOLOGIES.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The safe and efficient production of novel therapeutic proteins represents an expanding market of the biopharmaceutical industry that is fueled by the recent completion of the Human Genome Project and by rapid technological advances in the field of proteomics. Although many of these therapeutic proteins will be mass-produced by recombinant technology, there will be occasions where the commercialization of complex heterologous proteins that require extensive posttranslational modification will be better accomplished by isolating the native form of the protein. MultiCell Technologies (MCT) has developed proprietary technology for the long-term cultivation of primary human hepatocytes, as well as created numerous immortalized mammalian hepatocyte cell lines, that may provide a readily available and reproducible source of therapeutic plasma proteins (TPP). The production of TPP by cell-based systems would avoid the hazards of blood-derived products, the most notable of which is viral contamination. Since many plasma proteins require liver specific posttranslational modifications for full activity, we reason that hepatocyte-derived TPP may out perform their recombinant counterpart. In this Phase I application, we plan to investigate the feasibility of utilizing mammalian hepatocytes as a commercial source of therapeutic plasma proteins. Our rationale is founded on the development of several proprietary technologies that has led to the creation of two strategies for hepatocyte-based protein expression systems. In Aim 1 we plan to explore the utilization of primary human hepatocyte cultures for the production of TPP. The feasibility of this strategy is based upon MCT's development of proprietary serum-free culture conditions that support the long-term survival and function of primary and cryopreserved human hepatocytes. In Aim 2 we propose to evaluate the biological activity of hepatocyte-derived plasma proteins in order to confirm that immortalized hepatocyte cell lines can be used as a source of functional plasma proteins."
Reliable Captive Structural Panel Fasteners,N68335-02-C-0408,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2002,2,749741.00,Pilgrim Screw Corp.,120 Sprague Street,,Providence,RI,02907,No,No,No,Geoffrey Grove,President,4012744090,geoffgrove@pilgrimscrew.com,Jerry Attanasio,Director of Research & De,2035980838,jerry.attanasio@snet.net,"This new, reliable fastener will utilize the hole preparation designed for the existing fastener used in panels on the V-22 aircraft. It will utilize a retaining ring that allows positive captivation and holdout feature in the new stud assembly, whichwill solve the existing problem of stud retention and retraction. The nature of this new design will produce a rugged fastener that performs under the toughest conditions. The simplicity of the tooling and installation will drastically reduce cost. Thesolid stud design and use of stronger components will eliminate FOD and entrapment of debris. Despite the increased strength, reliablitiy, reusability, and cycle life, this fastener will save significant weight. It will truly be the ""reliable"" structuralpanel fastener for which the aviation industry has long been searching.BENEFITS: The primary benefit of this research is the creation of a fastener that works as intended. Secondary benefits of this reearch include: cost reduction, weight reduction,increased strength, reduced maintenance, simplified installation, and elimination of foreign object debris."
INDIVIDUALIZED EXPERT SYSTEMS FOR WEIGHT MANAGEMENT,1R44HL070549-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,1,123350.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice Prochaska,,4018744100,JANICEPRO@AOL.COM,Sara S. Johnson,,4018745612,SJOHNSON@PROCHANGE.COM,"DESCRIPTION (Provided by applicant): The prevalence of overweight and obesity has increased dramatically over the last two decades. Overweight and obesity, the second leading preventable cause of death, poses a major public health challenge in that it increases the risk of chronic diseases, including coronary heart disease, and all-cause mortality. Clinic-based programs for weight management are costly and serve only a small percentage of individuals. Population-based behavior change programs are needed to reach larger percentages of at risk individuals more cost-effectively. Preliminary research on the application of the Transtheoretical Model (TTM) to weight management suggests that the model has the potential to guide the development of effective multiple-behavior interventions. Phase I of this Fast-Track proposal involves the customization and feasibility testing of a stage-matched, individualized, interactive intervention based on the TTM. Feasibility includes proactively recruiting 60 percent of eligible participants (n=250) to participate in a randomized clinical trial and evaluating acceptability of the intervention materials. Computerized expert system interventions and stage-matched manuals delivered proactively to entire populations can have unprecedented impacts on the targeted health behaviors as well as weight. Using the TTM as the basis will provide the theoretical framework that experts have indicated is necessary to develop more effective and cost-effective interventions. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION: The proposed TTM based expert system weight management intervention is capable of high recruitment rates, accurate assessment, and individualized interventions that have the ability to create high impact on a population basis. We envision such interactive technologies for entire populations delivered at relatively low costs through the mail or over the Internet or an Intranet. Commercial applications include marketing to healthcare providers, namely managed care organizations, and employers who share the burden of healthcare expenses."
EXPERT SYSTEM INTERVENTION--DOMESTIC VIOLENCE OFFENDERS,2R44MH062858-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,2,785679.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice Prochaska,,4018744100,JANICEPRO@AOL.COM,Deborah A. Levesque,,4018744106,LEVESQUE@ETAL.URI.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Male-to-female partner violence poses a
major threat to the physical and emotional well being of women. Research
assessing the efficacy of court-mandated domestic violence treatment programs
has yielded disappointing results. A major problem with mandated treatment is
that it tends to be standardized and 'one-size-fits-all,' neglecting individual
differences in motivation level and readiness to change. We propose to
individualize services by developing and testing a Transtheoretical Model (TTM)
based intervention tailored to individual stage of readiness to end the
violence. In Phase I the objective was to develop a stage-based
computer-administered multimedia expert system intervention and self-help
manual designed to be administered as an adjunct to traditional batterer
treatment. In Phase II, the objective is to complete development of the
intervention materials, translate them into Spanish, and assess their efficacy
in a randomized clinical trial. English- and Spanish-speaking domestic violence
treatment clients will be randomly assigned at treatment intake to the
experimental (n=350) or control condition (n=350). Efficacy will be assessed by
comparing the intervention and control groups on number of batterer treatment
sessions attended, partner reports of recidivism, re-arrests for domestic
assault, and several secondary outcome measures."
EXPERT SYSTEM INTERVENTION--DOMESTIC VIOLENCE OFFENDERS,2R44MH062858-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,1,0.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,Janice Prochaska,,4018744100,JANICEPRO@AOL.COM,Deborah A. Levesque,,4018744106,LEVESQUE@ETAL.URI.EDU,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Male-to-female partner violence poses a
major threat to the physical and emotional well being of women. Research
assessing the efficacy of court-mandated domestic violence treatment programs
has yielded disappointing results. A major problem with mandated treatment is
that it tends to be standardized and 'one-size-fits-all,' neglecting individual
differences in motivation level and readiness to change. We propose to
individualize services by developing and testing a Transtheoretical Model (TTM)
based intervention tailored to individual stage of readiness to end the
violence. In Phase I the objective was to develop a stage-based
computer-administered multimedia expert system intervention and self-help
manual designed to be administered as an adjunct to traditional batterer
treatment. In Phase II, the objective is to complete development of the
intervention materials, translate them into Spanish, and assess their efficacy
in a randomized clinical trial. English- and Spanish-speaking domestic violence
treatment clients will be randomly assigned at treatment intake to the
experimental (n=350) or control condition (n=350). Efficacy will be assessed by
comparing the intervention and control groups on number of batterer treatment
sessions attended, partner reports of recidivism, re-arrests for domestic
assault, and several secondary outcome measures."
THERAPEUTIC USE OF INTER-ALPHA INHIBITOR IN SEPSIS,1R43GM065667-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,1,143105.00,"PROTHERA BIOLOGICS, LLC",551 Warren Avenue,,EAST PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,Yow-pin Lim,,4014382949,YOW-PIN_LIM_MD@BROWN.EDU,Yowpin Lim,,4014445416,YOW-PIN_LIM_MD@BROWN.EDU,"The primary goal of this proposed research is targeted towards demonstrating the commercial utilization of human plasma derived inter- alpha inhibitor proteins (IaIp) an effective therapy of sepsis. IaIp are serine protease inhibitors found normally at high levels in human plasma. The fact that no person with complete absence of IaIp has ever been detected suggests an essential physiological role for these proteins. In patients with severe sepsis, the plasma level of IaIp decrease significantly and the decrease correlates with mortality. We propose that administration of IaIp to restore the imbalance between these natural protective inhibitors and destructive proteases will prevent organ injuries and ultimately reduce sepsis related mortality. Our preliminary animal studies in a sepsis rat model of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) have demonstrated the beneficial effects of IaIp in maintaining hemodynamic stability, preventing organ injury, and improving survival during sepsis. In this study, we propose to optimize a protocol for purification of IaIp from human crude plasma and to evaluate and confirm the beneficial effects of the purified IaIp in the CLP rat model. The ultimate goal of these studies is to develop a novel plasma derived therapeutic that is safe and effective for sepsis."
A COMPREHENSIVE OUTCOME SCALE FOR OUTPATIENT PSYCHIATRY,2R44MH057603-02A2,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,2,999162.00,PSYCH PRODUCTS PRESS,PSYCH PRODUCTS PRESS,BOX 228,EAST GREENWICH,RI,02818,No,No,No,Mark Zimmerman,,4018856746,MZIMMERMAN@LIFESPAN.ORG,Diane Young,,4012770706,DYOUNG@LIFESPAN.ORG,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The proposed project is related to NIMH
research topic Assessment of Emotional and Psychological States. The goal is to
develop a multidimensional, modular, self-report questionnaire that evaluates
the course and outcome of psychiatric treatment. The Multidimensional
Assessment of Symptoms and Psychosocial Functioning (MASP) is designed to
assess symptom severity of the most commonly diagnosed DSM-IV Axis I disorders,
as well as psychosocial functioning and quality of life. Items on the scale are
based directly on DSM-IV diagnostic criteria, and the scale is organized for
immediate availability of information. The scale's modular structure lends
itself to selective subscale administration for ongoing treatment outcome
assessment. Phase I successfully attained the following goals: (1)
demonstration of the understandability of the MASP?s items; (2) demonstration
of the feasibility of using the MASP in clinical settings; (3) establishment of
the internal consistency and test-retest reliability of all MASP subscales, (4)
demonstration of the discriminant and convergent validity of the MASP
subscales, (5) demonstration of the reliability and validity of the MASP items,
and (6) support for the factor structure of the scale. The final, and most
important, steps in the development of the MASP is to demonstrate that the
instrument is sensitive to clinical change, and to establish MASP subscale
scores corresponding to different severity ranges."
A COMPREHENSIVE OUTCOME SCALE FOR OUTPATIENT PSYCHIATRY,2R44MH057603-02A2,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,1,0.00,PSYCH PRODUCTS PRESS,PSYCH PRODUCTS PRESS,BOX 228,EAST GREENWICH,RI,02818,No,No,No,Mark Zimmerman,,4018856746,MZIMMERMAN@LIFESPAN.ORG,Diane Young,,4012770706,DYOUNG@LIFESPAN.ORG,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The proposed project is related to NIMH
research topic Assessment of Emotional and Psychological States. The goal is to
develop a multidimensional, modular, self-report questionnaire that evaluates
the course and outcome of psychiatric treatment. The Multidimensional
Assessment of Symptoms and Psychosocial Functioning (MASP) is designed to
assess symptom severity of the most commonly diagnosed DSM-IV Axis I disorders,
as well as psychosocial functioning and quality of life. Items on the scale are
based directly on DSM-IV diagnostic criteria, and the scale is organized for
immediate availability of information. The scale's modular structure lends
itself to selective subscale administration for ongoing treatment outcome
assessment. Phase I successfully attained the following goals: (1)
demonstration of the understandability of the MASP?s items; (2) demonstration
of the feasibility of using the MASP in clinical settings; (3) establishment of
the internal consistency and test-retest reliability of all MASP subscales, (4)
demonstration of the discriminant and convergent validity of the MASP
subscales, (5) demonstration of the reliability and validity of the MASP items,
and (6) support for the factor structure of the scale. The final, and most
important, steps in the development of the MASP is to demonstrate that the
instrument is sensitive to clinical change, and to establish MASP subscale
scores corresponding to different severity ranges."
FUNCTIONAL HEALTH CAT IN CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE,1R43DK062555-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,1,100000.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,Allyson Davies,,4013348800,ARDAVIES@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,John E. Ware,,4013348800,JWARE@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): We seek to extensively advance the technology for measuring health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) using item response theory (IRT) and computerized adaptive testing (CAT) methods. HRQOL, accepted in clinical research as an important outcome, is a valuable predictor in CKD. Clinicians' intuitive assessment and monitoring of HRQOL influences treatment choices in CKD that enhance patient-caregiver communication in dialysis care. Respondent burden renders HRQOL measures impractical for widespread use in CKD. Short-forms have proven more practical and acceptable to patients; however, ""ceiling"" and ""floor"" effects result from measuring a limited range within each health domain. Lack of precision necessary to interpret individual patient scores is another major weakness of short forms like the SF-36. To address these deficiencies, Phase I activities will: (1) apply IRT to calibrate items administered at baseline in the NIDDK Hemodialysis Study (HEMO); (2) program CAT to simulate dynamic assessments that match questions to each patient's functional level (CKD.CAT); (3) estimate reductions in respondent burden, range of levels measured and score accuracy using CKD-CAT in comparison with the HEMO survey from existing data; and (4) evaluate the acceptance of actual CAT administrations relative to the original HEMO survey in a dialysis unit. The product of Phase I will be a prototype CKD-CAT with preliminary evidence regarding feasibility, acceptability and performance. In Phase II, items from the HEMO and Choices for Healthy Outcomes in Caring for End-Stage Renal Disease instruments will be calibrated on a common metric for each HRQOL domain to specifically address peritoneal dialysis. CKD-CAT will be evaluated (reliability, validity and precision) to create a fully operational system that facilitates clinical research and improves measurement in CKD clinical practice. By greatly lowering data collection costs, reducing respondent burden, eliminating ""ceiling"" and ""floor"" effects and increasing the precision of individual patient scores, routine monitoring of HRQOL may become feasible as a clinical tool in CKD, leading to acceptance of CAT for other chronic illnesses."
COMPUTERIZED ADAPTIVE VERSION OF THE PEDI,1R43HD042388-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,1,100000.00,"QUALITYMETRIC, INC.",24 ALBION ROAD,BUILDING 400,LINCOLN,RI,-,No,No,No,Kimberly Laliberte,,4013348800,KLALIBERTE@QMETRIC.COM,John E. Ware,,4013348800,JWARE@QUALITYMETRIC.COM,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Our objective is to achieve a major advance in the technology used to assess disability in children and youth. Measurement and practical requirements to identify disability and to evaluate individual progress across pediatric age groups and care settings present a serious dilemma to current fixed-item survey instruments. To address these deficiencies, the principal aims of Phase I are to: (1) build a prototype computer adaptive testing (CAT) system based on existing Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI) normative and clinical databases; (2) estimate the accuracy and responsiveness of scores based on the prototype PEDI-CAT in comparison with scores for the full-length PEDI (PEDI-Fixed) using existing databases; and (3) evaluate reductions in respondent burden and acceptance of parallel versions of the PEDI-CAT and PEDI-Fixed in a pilot field test in four
pediatric clinical settings. The product in Phase I will be a prototype version of a PEDI-CAT as well as preliminary evidence regarding how well it works. In Phase II, we will examine the questionnaire item calibrations of the original PEDI, add new items to broaden the age range coverage, conduct field studies to re-calibrate items, and create algorithms for a fully operational PEDI-CAT system. A practical and feasible PEDI-CAT will greatly improve the information
used in making decisions about disability status, service eligibility, program needs and outcomes of rehabilitation interventions. The product of this SBIR project will be a marketable CAT system for the assessment of disability in children and youth between the ages of 6 months and 18 years. Adapted from the PEDI, and expanded to a broader age group, this new disability assessment will fill a critical void with a system that is more practical and precise. It will
have the advantage of greatly reduced data collection costs, reduced respondent burden and will meet the standards of score precision required for clinical decisions at the individual patient level throughout the scale range. Many rehabilitation settings may also find this system helpful in meeting accreditation and institutional requirements for standardizing outcome
monitoring in groups of children."
NEW COMPUTERIZED TEST FOR MEMORY TRIALS,N43MH022057-000,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2002,1,99348.00,"SENTION, INC.",1 RICHMOND SQUARE,,PROVIDENCE,RI,02906,No,No,No,,,4012727177,,H. E. Mel,,,,N/A
A Compact Submersible Trace Chemical Analyzer for Tracking Plumes of Chemical Explosives with Autonomous Underwater Vehicles,N00014-02-C-0276,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2002,2,449747.00,"SUBCHEM SYSTEMS, INC.",65 Pier Road,,Narragansett,RI,02882,No,No,No,Alfred K. Hanson,President,4018746294,hanson@subchem.com,Alfred K. Hanson,President,4018746294,hanson@subchem.com,"""This SBIR Phase II project involves the development, testing and integration of a submersible solvent extraction module (SubSEM), tested in an SBIR Phase I feasibility study, with a miniature optical analytical detection system for the continuous sampling,pre-concentration, and chemical analysis of TNT present at ultra-trace concentration levels in seawater. The integrated underwater sampling and chemical analysis system for TNT will be configured for deployment as a payload on an autonomous underwatervehicle (AUV). The resulting, commercially viable, submersible TNT analyzer will have the capability to provide continuous, real-time results while deployed in situ on an AUV or on other ocean observation platforms (i.e. moored or ship-deployedmonitoring). The capability of the submersible TNT analyzer to pre-concentrate and determine trace quantities of TNT from seawater, while deployed on an AUV, will be demonstrated in the marine environment.BENEFITS: Completion of the Phase II effort willproduce a functional, compact prototype submersible TNT analyzer with plug and play functionality with the REMUS AUV. The submersible TNT analyzer will have a substantial cost benefit over traditional methodologies for TNT sampling and analysis in marinewaters. There are several applications for a fast response AUV deployable chemical analyzer that is highly sensitive for specific organic compounds. The instrument may be adapted for the environmenta"
Development of Onboard Power Sources for Interceptor Missiles,F33715-M-02-2275,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2002,1,69920.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Alexander Karpinski,General Manager,8605991100,karpinski@yardney.com,Roberto Serenyi,Engineer,8605991100,rserenyi@yardney.com,"This SBIR program is aimed at improving the power density of primary silver-zinc cells in general, and particularly those used in interceptor ballistic missiles. We intend to achieve that objective by advancing the state-of-the-art of bipolar electrodes,where both positive and negatives are built on a common current collector, and of the ""pile"" batteries made with them, which are capable of up to four times the power output per unit volume, compared to conventional (monopolar) batteries. The majorobstacles to the development of such batteries have been (1) the problem of intercell electrolyte leakage, which creates parasitic currents, and eventually leads to failure and (2) overheating. However, we are confident to overcome those obstacles by usingrecently developed heat resistant plastics and epoxy adhesives, and individual cell valves capable of containing the electrolyte, at the same time allowing excessive gas pressure to vent. The successful completion of this program would result insilver-based batteries capable of up to 4 times the power density of those presently available, very attractive for military and space applications, existing and new, such as high speed underwater propulsion systems, short bursts of very high power,anti-ballistic missiles, etc."
"Recycling of Coated Plastics Used in Automotive, IT and Commercial Applications",DE-FG02-01ER83345,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2002,1,0.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,65737,8605991100,,Thomas J. Barbarich,,8605991100,,"65737 Commercially viable hybrid and electric vehicles require improved batteries that offer greater capacity, cycle life, and power capability with reduced size and weight. The most energy dense rechargeable batteries currently available are Li-ion batteries, yet the high cost of these batteries has prevented their commercial use. A significant cost driver of these batteries is the cost of the lithium salt in the electrolyte. This project will utilize low-cost starting materials to produce low-cost lithium salts for use in Li-ion batteries. In Phase I, a new class of lithium salts was developed for Li-ion batteries. The salts offer the potential for significant cost saving over the current industry standard and showed good performance characteristics including conductivities as high as 4.8 mS/cm, electrochemical stability from 0 V to > 4.5 V, excellent solubility, and compatibility with standard Li-ion cell electrode materials. Phase II will scale up the synthesis of the lithium salts developed in Phase I and continue the investigation of other related salts. The salts will be tested in 7 Ah or greater size Li-ion cells to evaluate performance and to demonstrate their utility in electric and hybrid electric vehicle applications. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The lower cost Li salt technology should make Li-ion batteries more affordable and commercially viable in electric and hybrid electric vehicles. Other applications include computers, cell phones, and satellites."
The Development of a Polyvalent Battery System,DE-FG02-02ER83579,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2002,1,99965.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,70552,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Thomas J. Barbarich,,8605991100,tbarbarich@lithion.com,"70552 Polyvalent battery systems incorporating magnesium or aluminum are expected to have several significant performance advantages (including higher specific energy, energy density, and cycle life) over conventional lead-acid batteries and also be much more environmentally friendly. Such systems also would offer advantages in safety and cost over current lithium-ion battery technology. This project will develop new electrolytes for polyvalent systems and screen them with various cathode materials. The electrolytes will be developed in Phase I by synthesizing new magnesium and aluminum salts. These new salts will be tested for electrochemical stability, conductivity, ability to reversibly deposit magnesium or aluminum electrochemically, and ability to reversibly intercalate/deintercalate from cathode materials. The best materials will be selected and tested in button cells. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The battery cells could be used in high rate applications such as electric and hybrid automobiles, providing a high performance, low cost, safe, and environmentally friendly battery system."
"Recycling of Coated Plastics Used in Automotive, IT and Commercial Applications",DE-FG02-01ER83345,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2002,2,749706.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,65737,8605991100,,Thomas J. Barbarich,,8605991100,,"65737 Commercially viable hybrid and electric vehicles require improved batteries that offer greater capacity, cycle life, and power capability with reduced size and weight. The most energy dense rechargeable batteries currently available are Li-ion batteries, yet the high cost of these batteries has prevented their commercial use. A significant cost driver of these batteries is the cost of the lithium salt in the electrolyte. This project will utilize low-cost starting materials to produce low-cost lithium salts for use in Li-ion batteries. In Phase I, a new class of lithium salts was developed for Li-ion batteries. The salts offer the potential for significant cost saving over the current industry standard and showed good performance characteristics including conductivities as high as 4.8 mS/cm, electrochemical stability from 0 V to > 4.5 V, excellent solubility, and compatibility with standard Li-ion cell electrode materials. Phase II will scale up the synthesis of the lithium salts developed in Phase I and continue the investigation of other related salts. The salts will be tested in 7 Ah or greater size Li-ion cells to evaluate performance and to demonstrate their utility in electric and hybrid electric vehicle applications. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The lower cost Li salt technology should make Li-ion batteries more affordable and commercially viable in electric and hybrid electric vehicles. Other applications include computers, cell phones, and satellites."
The Development of a Low-Cost Separator with Improved Performance,DE-FG02-02ER83580,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2002,1,99969.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vincent Yevoli,70385,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Thomas J. Barbarich,,8605991100,tbarbarich@lithion.com,"70385 The performance advantages of lithium-ion batteries over conventional lead-acid batteries include higher specific energy (-150 Wh/kg), energy density (>325 Wh/L), and cycle life. While these advantages have lead to the recent growth of lithium-ion technology for various consumer applications, the high cost of these batteries has prevented their commercial use in electric and hybrid vehicles. Currently, the separator can contribute over 20% of the total cost of a li-ion cell for a hybrid electric vehicle battery, making it one of the cost drivers in a lithium-ion cell. To lower the cost, this project will develop inexpensive, macroporous separators for lithium-ion battery systems. In Phase I, template-directed fabrication methods will be used to prepare macroporous membranes with microporous interconnects from alumina-nanoparticle (alumoxanes) hybrid resin composites. These new materials will be prepared from inexpensive materials to lower the costs and tested for their performance in lithium-ion battery systems. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The new separators could be used in most applications using lithium-ion technology including electric and hybrid automobiles, computers, cell phones and satellites."
"Development of a Novel, Thin Film Lithium-ion Battery Technology",DASG60-02-P-0121,DOD,MDA,SBIR,2002,1,69860.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,General Manager,8605991100,vyevoli@lithion.com,Joseph DiCarlo,Director Research,8605991100,jdicarlo@lithion.com,"Lithium-ion batteries offer several performance advantages over conventional rechargeable batteries including higher specific energy ( 150Wh/kg), energy density (>325 Wh/L) and cycle life. While these advantages have lead to the recent growth oflithium-ion technology for various consumer applications, this technology still needs development to be used in some non-commercial applications that require higher rate, longer cycle life and an expanded operating temperature range. This proposed studyinvolves the replacement of the standard anode material in state of the art lithium-ion cells with a low cost silicon based material that will significantly improve the cells performance in the area of cycle life, energy density, power density andexpanded temperature operating range. In addition to the change of anode, a new separator system will be utilized that is low cost and will improve safety aspects of this system. The technology being explored in this study would advance the state of theart in lithium-ion technology in the areas of energy density, specific energy and cycle life. The commercial potential for this technology will be in the areas of aerospace and portable electronic applications that require more energy and an expandedtemperature operating range than what is now commercially available."
Compliant Brush Shroud Casing Development for Aircraft Engine Compressors,F33615-01-C-2115,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,"ADVANCED COMPONENTS & MATERIALS, INC.",1360 HIGH HAWK ROAD,,EAST GREENWICH,RI,02818 1361,No,No,No,Amit Datta,President,4018855064,adatta@worldnet.att.net,Amit Datta,President,4018855064,adatta@worldnet.att.net,The proposed Phase II program will optimize the design and manufacturing process of a compliant brush shroud casing. Recent tests at Wright Laboratories with staged brush seals have demonstrated significantly increased blade to shroud rub tolerance of acompliant casing. Phase I of the program is expected to demonstrate the feasibility of two innovative brush shroud designs with lower cost and weight than staged brush seals. This will be achieved by eliminating the front and back plates of conventionalbrush seals and incorporating the compliant casing only in the forward section of the blade chord where the effect of reduced tip clearance is most significant. Phase II will down select an optimum brush shroud design and manufacturing process by furthertesting at Wright Laboratories and establish a target life-cycle cost based on current repair costs. Phase II will also include fabrication of a compliant shroud casing for technology demonstration in an advanced military engine program at GE AircraftEngines.
Compliant Brush Shroud Casing Development for Aircraft Engine Compressors,F33615-01-C-2115,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2001,2,690572.00,"ADVANCED COMPONENTS & MATERIALS, INC.",1360 HIGH HAWK ROAD,,EAST GREENWICH,RI,02818 1361,No,No,No,Amit Datta,President,4018855064,adatta@worldnet.att.net,Amit Datta,President,4018855064,adatta@worldnet.att.net,The proposed Phase II program will optimize the design and manufacturing process of a compliant brush shroud casing. Recent tests at Wright Laboratories with staged brush seals have demonstrated significantly increased blade to shroud rub tolerance of acompliant casing. Phase I of the program is expected to demonstrate the feasibility of two innovative brush shroud designs with lower cost and weight than staged brush seals. This will be achieved by eliminating the front and back plates of conventionalbrush seals and incorporating the compliant casing only in the forward section of the blade chord where the effect of reduced tip clearance is most significant. Phase II will down select an optimum brush shroud design and manufacturing process by furthertesting at Wright Laboratories and establish a target life-cycle cost based on current repair costs. Phase II will also include fabrication of a compliant shroud casing for technology demonstration in an advanced military engine program at GE AircraftEngines.
Implantable Noise-Based Sensory Enhancement Devices,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,1,100000.00,AFFERENT CORPORATION,AFFERENT CORPORATION,"BOX 160, 3 DAVOL SQ, STE C200",PROVIDENCE,RI,02903,No,No,No,,,4014539933,JASON_HARRY@SENSORYTECHINC.COM,Jason D. Harry,,,,"Stochastic resonance (SR) is a counterintuitive phenomenon in which slight amounts of noise imparted to a system actually increase its sensitivity to weak stimuli. SR has been shown to produce a demonstrable effect in human sensory cells. In both healthy young and clinical subjects - elderly, diabetics, and stroke sufferers - a notable increase in tactile and proprioceptive sensitivity is seen when electrical or mechanical noise is presented at the site of the stimulus. Dysfunction in these sensory systems is known to have significant clinical sequellae including gait abnormalities, propensity to fall, and foot ulcers. Together, these conditions cost the U.S. healthcare system many billions of dollars annually. The proposed research will initiate a development program whose ultimate goal is to produce fully implantable medical devices that capitalize on this effect to treat certain types of sensory dysfunction. In an acute in-vivo animal model, we will test the hypothesis that sub- sensory noise delivered via subcutaneous electrodes placed near mechanoreceptors in the lower leg improves the ability of those receptors to discern slight rotations about the ankle. Direct recordings will be made of afferent nerve signals from those mechanoreceptors. We will also assess whether the receptors adapt to the noise stimulation, rendering it ineffective over time. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS: If successful, the proposed research can lead to implantable medical devices that improve somatosensory sensitivity in people who suffer from peripheral neuropathy. This would improve quality of life for these individuals while reducing the costs of caring for them. Applications include uses in improving gait and balance, some forms of incontinence, and rehabilitation medicine."
ENHANCING THE TACTILE SENSE USING MECHANICAL NOISE,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,1,100000.00,AFFERENT CORPORATION,AFFERENT CORPORATION,"BOX 160, 3 DAVOL SQ, STE C200",PROVIDENCE,RI,02903,No,No,No,,,4014539933,JASON_HARRY@SENSORYTECHINC.COM,Jason D. Harry,,,,"Stochastic resonance (SR), a counterintuitive phenomenon in which slight amounts of environmental noise actually increase the discernability of signals or stimuli, produces a demonstrable effect in human sensory cells. In both healthy young and clinical subjects- elderly, diabetics, and stroke sufferers-a significant increase in tactile and proprioceptive sensitivity is noted when electrical or mechanical noise is presented at the site of the stimulus. Dysfunction in these sensory systems is known to have significant clinical sequellae including gait abnormalities, propensity to fall, and foot ulcers. Together, these conditions cost the U.S. healthcare system many billions of dollars annually. The goal of the proposed researches to advance early laboratory results toward a therapeutic device for enhancing the tactile and proprioceptive sensitivity of patients in these large clinical populations. The work will focus on use of mechanical noise to produce the desired beneficial effect. Two significant limitations in current understanding will be addressed. First, we will determine the characteristics of mechanical noise that produce the optimal sensory enhancement. This information is key to the design of prototype actuators and products. Second, in tests representative of activities of daily living we will explore whether use of mechanical noise provides a true functional benefit. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS: If successful, the proposed research will lead to medical devices that improve tactile and proprioceptive sensitivity in people who suffer from peripheral numbness. This would improve quality of life for these individuals while reducing the costs of caring for them. Additional medical applications include uses in upper extremities, some forms of incontinence, and rehabilitation medicine."
Restoring Diabetic Tactile Sense with Mechanical Noise,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,1,100000.00,AFFERENT CORPORATION,AFFERENT CORPORATION,"BOX 160, 3 DAVOL SQ, STE C200",PROVIDENCE,RI,02903,No,No,No,,,4014539933,JASON_HARRY@SENSORYTECHINC.COM,Jason D. Harry,,,,"Stochastic resonance (SR) is a counterintuitive phenomenon in which slight amounts of noise imparted to a system actually increase its sensitivity to weak stimuli. SR has been shown to produce a demonstrable effect in human sensory cells. In both healthy young and clinical subjects-elderly, diabetics, and stroke sufferers-a notable increase in tactile and proprioceptive sensitivity is seen when electrical or mechanical noise is presented at the site of the stimulus. Dysfunction in the tactile system in diabetics is known to have significant clinical sequelae including gait abnormalities, propensity to fall, and foot ulcers. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy, with its complications, costs the U.S. healthcare system many billions of dollars annually. The goal of the proposed research is to advance early laboratory results toward a therapeutic device for enhancing the tactile sense in diabetic patients. The work will demonstrate the ability of mechanical stimulation to improve sensitivity using two metrics. First, we will determine the magnitude of the SR benefit in diabetics using standard neurological examinations, specifically the Semmes-Weinstein and vibration perception threshold tests. Second, we will explore the functional benefit of mechanical stimulation in stance and sway experiments. Both experiments will give a measure of true functional benefit. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS: If successful, the proposed research will lead to medical devices that improve tactile sensitivity in people who suffer from diabetic peripheral neuropathy. This would improve quality of life for these individuals while reducing the costs of caring for them. Additional medical applications include use of technology in stroke, aging, and rehabilitation medicine."
Method for Control of Biting Midges Using Odor-Baited Traps,2001-33610-11083,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,American Biophysics Corporation,2240 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,02818,No,No,No,Emma A. Durand,Vice President Engineering,4018843500,MosquitoMagnet.com,Alan J. Grant,,4018843500,AGrant@MosquitoMagnet.com,"We propose to develop a method of trapping biting midges including Culicoides. Biting midges are economically important insect pests. Their presence in large numbers can have a detrimental impact on land development and tourism. In addition, these insects are the vector of bluetongue, an arbovirus which is transmitted in cattle and sheep during repeated blood-feeding by biting flies. Our approach is to identify attractants used by Culicoides locate potential vertebrate hosts. In Phase I of this grant, we identified and characterized the carbon dioxide receptor neuron found in sensilla on the maxillary palps of this insect. However, these maxillary palps sensilla were not sensitive to any other chemical tested. Therefore, in Phase II, we will continue these electrophysiological studies on the antenna. We expect to locate neurons sensitive to other chemical attractants. Concurrent with these studies, we propose a series of field test aimed at determining what signals Culicoides use to orient to host. Such studies will lead to the development of an effective trap for Culicoides and should be useful for control of this economically- important pest species."
Method for Control of Biting Midges Using Odor-Baited Traps,2001-33610-11083,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2001,2,240827.00,American Biophysics Corporation,2240 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,02818,No,No,No,Emma A. Durand,Vice President Engineering,4018843500,MosquitoMagnet.com,Alan J. Grant,,4018843500,AGrant@MosquitoMagnet.com,"We propose to develop a method of trapping biting midges including Culicoides. Biting midges are economically important insect pests. Their presence in large numbers can have a detrimental impact on land development and tourism. In addition, these insects are the vector of bluetongue, an arbovirus which is transmitted in cattle and sheep during repeated blood-feeding by biting flies. Our approach is to identify attractants used by Culicoides locate potential vertebrate hosts. In Phase I of this grant, we identified and characterized the carbon dioxide receptor neuron found in sensilla on the maxillary palps of this insect. However, these maxillary palps sensilla were not sensitive to any other chemical tested. Therefore, in Phase II, we will continue these electrophysiological studies on the antenna. We expect to locate neurons sensitive to other chemical attractants. Concurrent with these studies, we propose a series of field test aimed at determining what signals Culicoides use to orient to host. Such studies will lead to the development of an effective trap for Culicoides and should be useful for control of this economically- important pest species."
Electronic Warfare Adaptive Spatial/Spectral Cancellation,N00014-01-M-0031,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2001,1,99741.00,"DEEGAN RESEARCH GROUP, INC.",39 Porter Lane,,Portsmouth,RI,02871,No,No,No,Thierry Deegan,President,4016831799,drg@ids.net,Thierry Deegan,President,4016831899,drg@ids.net,"Proposed for development is an escape trunk cofferdam that is made of a set of rigid (composite sandwich) cylindrical sectors joined by longitudinal sealing joints. The cofferdam is attached to the escape trunk's bubble skirt by an attachment ring whichallows the sections of the cofferdam to be staged below the hatch before it is opened. When the hatch is opened, the sectors are raised through the hatch. Then activation of a set of pneumatic longitudnal and circumferential seals locks the cofferdam inplace and makes it watertight. For passage of personnel, the composite cofferdam has an inner step and a folding step to reach outside the cofferdam. The proposed cofferdam is expected to be activated more quickly than an inflating-body cofferdam andwill be far more suitable for the rugged and frequently sharp-edged environment of a submarine. The material to be used for the cofferdam is also significantly less flammable than materials used typically for inflatables. The project proposed includesthe design of the sandwich shell, development of both mechanical and pneumatic type seals for comparison, and fabrication of a breadboard suitable for illustrating its fit and function dockside.The cofferdam proposed for development is based on existingcommercial products and offers a low-cost path to a set of long-lived cofferdams for the Fleet. This cofferdam can be applied to a number of applications in the construction industry."
Epitope driven HPV Vaccine Targeting Dentritic Cells,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,1,247768.00,"EPIVAX, INC.",146 CLIFFORD STREET,,PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4012722123,ANNIED@EPIVAX.COM,Anne S. Degroot,,,,"Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) types 16 and 18 are detected in roughly 70% of all invasive cervical tumors. Among cytologically normal women, detection of HPV infection by PCR has been shown to increase the subsequent risk of cervical cytologic abnormalities by 12 fold, suggesting that effective vaccines (preventive/therapeutic) for HPV infection would be a useful medical advance in the battle against this cancer. EpiVax is developing a dendritic cell-directed DNA vaccine against HPV 16, 18, and other cervical cancer-associated HPV types. For this project, we have selected 100 novel HPV peptides that represent putative MHC class I and class II restricted T cell epitopes, primarily derived from the E1, E2, E6, E7 and L1 proteins of selected HPV types. Binding studies and CTL studies will be performed to select the best candidates for vaccine development Selected epitopes will be inserted in a DNA vector. Additional DNA vaccine development, safety, toxicity, and protection studies will be carried out in Phase II. The specific aims of this project are to: * Screen putative HPV epitopes for MHC binding and HPV-specific T cell recognition * Construct DNA vaccine vectors containing candidate HPV epitopes * Evaluate DNA vector expression in human dendritic cells in vitro. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS: A therapeutic anti-HPV vaccine would have a tremendous market impact since existing cervical screening programs cost nearly $6 billion annually in the United States. Also, most sexually active women have been exposed to HPV, so it is unlikely that a prophylactic HPV vaccine will confer protection. A novel immunologic therapy to treat existing HPV infection as well as HPV-associated cervical cancer, such as the one we propose, may represent an attractive and cost effective treatment alternative."
Diagnostic Reagents for Emerging Infectious Diseases,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,1,105609.00,"EPIVAX, INC.",146 CLIFFORD STREET,,PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4012722123,ANNIED@EPIVAX.COM,Anne S. Degroot,,,,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): West Nile virus (WNV) is a flavivirus
commonly found in Africa, West Asia, and the Middle East. The virus was
introduced into the United States in 1999. Case-fatality rates during the
1999-2000 U.S. epidemics ranged from 3 percent to 15 percent and were highest
in the elderly. The virus is expected to over-winter during 2000-2001 and
re-emerge in the Northeast over a wider area. The goal of this project is to
develop epitope reagents that could be used in a diagnostic test (such as a
tetramer assay) for cell-mediated response to WNV. These reagents may be useful
for screening exposed individuals, for investigating the immunopathogenesis of
WNV disease in humans, as a component of the surveillance effort and/or,
eventually, as a tool for measuring WNV vaccine-related immune responses.
The specific aims of this project are to:
Select WNV ""unique"" sequences for potential immunogenicity, using EpiVax tools
Confirm MHC binding of selected ligands in T2 MHC binding assays
Confirm T cell response to the WNV epitopes by ELIspot assay
Begin the process of constructing several tetramers containing WNV epitopes
with the NIH tetramer contract service.
PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION: NOT AVAILABLE"
ENHANCED DNA MICROARRAY PERFORMANCE WITH GAPPED PROBES,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,1,176075.00,GENESPECTRUM,GENESPECTRUM,11 SEA BREEZE LN,BRISTOL,RI,02809,No,No,No,,,4018632844,JOHN_OLIVER@BROWN.EDU,John S. Oliver,,,,"The goal of this project is to develop a more powerful and robust system for the sequencing and analysis of DNA by hybridization to microarrays. Our conceptually novel approach is based on a new probe design and sequence reconstruction algorithm which has been demonstrated by computational modeling to provide higher information density on a DNA hybridization chip. The Human Genome Project is providing unique insight into a wide range of biological phenomena and diseases. The biotechnology sector and end users of biotechnology products will drive a multibillion dollarmarket for DNA-based diagnostics and research tools. By the year 2005 it is expected that diagnostic tests based on DNA probes will be a $6 billion market. A significant portion of this market will use DNA microchip arrays. Our method will provide a superior method for analyzing DNA for medical diagnostics and for de novo sequencing. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL Improved DNA microarrays will be useful in clinical diagnostics, drug discovery expression profiling, as well as de novo DNA sequencing."
Acoustic Band Gap Materials and Devices,DAAH0101CR055,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2001,2,373782.00,LASER FARE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY GROUP,"LanRex Industrial Park, One Industrial Drive South",,Smithfield,RI,02917,No,No,No,Thomas McDonald,,4017385777,,Paul Jacobs,Vice President of Technol,4017385777,,"Laser Fare, working with Triton Systems, the Naval Undersea Weapons Center, and the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics, recently completed the DARPA"
Acoustic Band Gap Materials and Devices,DAAH0101CR055,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,LASER FARE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY GROUP,"LanRex Industrial Park, One Industrial Drive South",,Smithfield,RI,02917,No,No,No,Thomas McDonald,,4017385777,,Paul Jacobs,Vice President of Technol,4017385777,,"Laser Fare, working with Triton Systems, the Naval Undersea Weapons Center, and the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics, recently completed the DARPA"
Handheld One-Way Voice Communication System,DAAH0101CR003,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2001,2,1174580.00,"MARINE ACOUSTICS, INC.",809 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,Benard Patterson,,4018477508,,Ace Sarich,Principal Engineer,4107575358,,"There are now 300 languages spoken in the United States and millions of Americans travel abroad each year to foreign countries. Public service officials, military personnel, educators and medical professionals need to be able to communicate with anever-increasing non-English speaking population. In the past it was necessary for a person to be bilingual or use an interpreter. Now, a handheld voice-to-voice phrase translation system (PTS) makes such verbal communication possible. MAI's SBIR Phase Idemonstrated the technical feasibility and marketability of a handheld PTS. MAI's SBIR Phase II objective is to develop and produce a commercially viable handheld PTS. The concept of operations and preliminary design from the SBIR Phase I effort will beused as the basis of the Phase II effort to design, build and demonstrate an engineering prototype system. A detailed production specification for the final design for the commercial handheld PTS will also be completed. MAI is committed to the rapidcommercialization of both the PTS and the handheld PTS. MAI's commercialization strategy is based on developing a superior technical product, effective marketing and distribution and declining unit costs coupled with a first-to-market advantage."
Handheld One-Way Voice Communication System,DAAH0101CR003,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,"MARINE ACOUSTICS, INC.",809 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,Benard Patterson,,4018477508,,Ace Sarich,Principal Engineer,4107575358,,"There are now 300 languages spoken in the United States and millions of Americans travel abroad each year to foreign countries. Public service officials, military personnel, educators and medical professionals need to be able to communicate with anever-increasing non-English speaking population. In the past it was necessary for a person to be bilingual or use an interpreter. Now, a handheld voice-to-voice phrase translation system (PTS) makes such verbal communication possible. MAI's SBIR Phase Idemonstrated the technical feasibility and marketability of a handheld PTS. MAI's SBIR Phase II objective is to develop and produce a commercially viable handheld PTS. The concept of operations and preliminary design from the SBIR Phase I effort will beused as the basis of the Phase II effort to design, build and demonstrate an engineering prototype system. A detailed production specification for the final design for the commercial handheld PTS will also be completed. MAI is committed to the rapidcommercialization of both the PTS and the handheld PTS. MAI's commercialization strategy is based on developing a superior technical product, effective marketing and distribution and declining unit costs coupled with a first-to-market advantage."
An Expert System to Reduce Depression in Primary Care,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,1,0.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4018744109,JANICEPRO@AOL.COM,Deborah A. Levesque,,,,"A variety of effective interventions exist for people who seek help for depression. However, there is a lack of effective interventions for individuals who do not seek help or follow through with treatment referrals. We propose to fill this gap in services by developing and testing a Transtheoretical Model-based intervention that will be delivered proactively, on a population basis, to primary care patients who are experiencing symptoms of depression but are not currently involved in treatment. It is the first intervention for depression that is appropriate for individuals in all stages of change-not merely the minority who are prepared to take action. In Phase I of this Fast Track Initiative, the aims are to norm TTM measures, develop the TTM interventions, and determine the feasibility of this approach by assessing study recruitment rates and reactions to the intervention materials. Primary care patients who screen positive for mild to moderate depression and are not involved in treatment will complete surveys for measurement norming (n=100) or participate in a pilot-test of the intervention materials (n=50). If feasibility conditions are met, we will conduct a randomized clinical trial in Phase II to assess the efficacy of the expert system intervention for depression. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS: Depression is a costly illness for health care organizations, disability insurers, and employers because of increased health service utilization, disability claims, and lost productively among depressed individuals. An effective, low-cost expert system that can reduce the prevalence of depression on a population basis has significant commercial potential."
An Expert System to Reduce Depression in Primary Care,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,2,150886.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4018744109,JANICEPRO@AOL.COM,Deborah A. Levesque,,,,"A variety of effective interventions exist for people who seek help for depression. However, there is a lack of effective interventions for individuals who do not seek help or follow through with treatment referrals. We propose to fill this gap in services by developing and testing a Transtheoretical Model-based intervention that will be delivered proactively, on a population basis, to primary care patients who are experiencing symptoms of depression but are not currently involved in treatment. It is the first intervention for depression that is appropriate for individuals in all stages of change-not merely the minority who are prepared to take action. In Phase I of this Fast Track Initiative, the aims are to norm TTM measures, develop the TTM interventions, and determine the feasibility of this approach by assessing study recruitment rates and reactions to the intervention materials. Primary care patients who screen positive for mild to moderate depression and are not involved in treatment will complete surveys for measurement norming (n=100) or participate in a pilot-test of the intervention materials (n=50). If feasibility conditions are met, we will conduct a randomized clinical trial in Phase II to assess the efficacy of the expert system intervention for depression. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS: Depression is a costly illness for health care organizations, disability insurers, and employers because of increased health service utilization, disability claims, and lost productively among depressed individuals. An effective, low-cost expert system that can reduce the prevalence of depression on a population basis has significant commercial potential."
An Outcome Scale for Pathological Gambling,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,1,106659.00,PSYCH PRODUCTS PRESS,PSYCH PRODUCTS PRESS,BOX 228,EAST GREENWICH,RI,02818,No,No,No,,,4018856746,MZIMMERMAN@LIFESPAN.ORG,Robert B. Breen,,,,"DESCRIPTION: Pathological gambling (PG) is a serious public health concern that
is attracting increased funding for the delivery of services. There is a
crucial need for a brief, clinically meaningful and psychometrically sound
scale that can be used in routine clinical practice to assess the effectiveness
of treatment in PG's. It is the aim of this project to develop such a measure.
In Phase I of the project we will develop a pool of preliminary items for the
Rhode Island Gambling Outcomes Rating Scale (RIGORS). Three focus groups, the
first comprised of ten PG's, the second of treatment professionals, and the 3rd
an international panel of experts on PG, will suggest content domains and items for
the preliminary version of the scale. We will then examine the psychometric properties
of the scale by administering the RIGORS to a sample of PG's seeking, or already in
treatment. The results from Phase-I will enable us to fund a more rigorous
Phase-Il multi-site treatment outcome validation study.
PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION:
The proposed application is as a brief, clinically meaningful scale that can be used and
easily scored and interpretted by clinicians. The scale will be marketed as a multidimensional
outcome measure of PG."
Receptor Based Screening of CYP Induction,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2001,1,95325.00,"RODATECH, LLC",95 POLO DR,,SAUNDERSTOWN,RI,02874,Yes,No,No,,,4018745032,ZPING@RODATECH.COM,Lan Liu,,,,"DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes rank first
among tne phase I bio-transformation enzymes in terms of catalytic versatility
and the number of xenobiotics they metabolize. Therefore, induction of CYP
enzymes contributes significantly to drug-drug interactions and plays key roles
in the detoxication and bioactivation of xenobiotics. The Food and Drug
Administration request all new drugs be tested for CYP induction, and
pharmaceutical industries are very interested in establishing CYP induction
profiles of drug candidates early so that appropriate decisions can be made for
further development. Studies of molecular signaling have demonstrated that CYP
induction is primarily achieved by receptor-mediated transactivation. The
receptor-mediated action requires interactions with other proteins (e.g.,
co-repressor and co-activator). Some of the interactions exhibit an
inducer-dependent manner, providing a molecular basis for developing an in
vitro screening system described in this application. In this system, two
plasmids encoding respective receptor and its interactive protein will be
transformed into yeast strains harboring two reporter genes: HIS3 and B
galactosidase. The presence of a CYP inducer will alter the interaction (e.g.,
dissociation or association) between the receptor and its reactive protein,
thus change the expression of the reporter genes. Monitoring of the reporter
activities will reflect the inductive effect of a chemical on CYP enzymes. The
important features of this screening system are:: unlimited availability, high
sensitivity, superior specificity and suitability for high throughput
screening. The proposed studies will focus on the aryl hydrocarbon receptor for
CYPIA and lB, the constitutive androstane receptor for CYP2B, 2C and 3A, the
pregnane X receptor for CYP3A and the peroxisome proliferator-activated
receptor-a for CYP4A. These CYP enzymes collectively involve the metabolism of
more than 80 percent drugs and other xenobiotics.
PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION: NOT AVAILABLE"
Multi-Layer Interlocked Pultruded Composite Armor for AAAV,N00014-01-M-0128,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2001,1,99695.00,"SUBCHEM SYSTEMS, INC.",65 Pier Road,,Narragansett,RI,02882,No,No,No,Alfred Hanson,President,4018746294,hanson@subchem.com,Alfred Hanson,President,4018746294,Hanson@subchem.com,"A small autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), with appropriate chemical, acoustic and optical sensor systems, would be a useful tool for remote, automated tracking and mapping of underwater plumes of leaking organic chemical explosives and locating theirsource. Presently it is not possible to survey and track such underwater plumes because available AUV-deployable chemical analyzers do not have the required lower limits of detection and fast response times. The primary goal of this Phase I project is todemonstrate the feasibility of developing an autonomous Submersible Solvent Extraction Module (SubSEM) that utilizes integrated microfluidic circuits to continuously sample and preconcentrate (100X - 1000X) explosive organic chemicals (i.e. TNT, DNT) thatmay be present at ultra-trace concentration levels in marine waters. The design of the miniature sized SubSEM will enable coupling to comparatively sized submersible chemical detection systems. The resulting compact submersible chemical analyzer will bereadily integrated into small AUVs. The envisioned submersible chemical analyzer would also have the analytical selectivity, sensitivity (sub part-per-trillion) and fast response times (seconds) that are required for underway tracking of plumes of chemicalexplosives and the detection and identification of unexploded ordnance in the marine environment.AUVs with integrated high-resolution chemical and physical sensor systems are clearly needed for rapid detection, classification and localization of mine-like objects and unexploded ordnance in shallow water operating environments. Similarly designed AUVscould also have substantial private-sector applications in marine waters including, environmental investigations of the hydrodynamics of riverine and sewage inputs, hypoxia, harmful algal blooms and chemical pollution events, and commercial aviation searchand find missions. There are also numerous private sector applications for submersible chemical analyzers with the lower detection limits afforded by the envisioned SubSEM preconcentration module. Examples include environmental monitoring of industrial andmunicipal waste streams for compliance and in-line quality assurance monitoring in chemical and pharmaceutical processing plants."
Dual-alloy Titanium Aluminide for Turboshaft Engines,DAAD17-01-C-0044,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2001,2,728279.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,President and CEO,8605991100,gzacharias@cra.com,Grant Ehrlich,Research Scientist,8605991100,gzacharias@cra.com,"The Army has implemented multiple programs to develop and field rechargeable alternatives to currently used primary batteries. These programs are motivated by the need to reduce peacetime (MOOTW, military operations other than war) battery costs. While theperformance characteristics of Army rechargeable batteries approaches the state-of-the-art relative to available battery technologies, battery capacity, shelf life and high temperature stability are significantly less than primary battery alternatives. Toimprove rechargeable cell chemistry to more closely meet the Army's needs, Yardney Technical Products, Inc. proposes a Phase II SBIR program to develop and demonstrate novel negative electrode materials for Li-ion batteries. In particular, the program willbuild upon past success with tin based anode materials and focus on materials that have the potential to enable the development of rechargeable batteries with significantly improved energy density, shelf life and high temperature stability. Anticipatedbenefits to the Government include longer life rechargeable batteries, facilitating reduction in Army battery costs. Further, a unique rechargeable cell chemistry that offers performance superior to currently available technologies will reduce productioncosts and enable the establishment of new business opportunities for battery manufacturers."
Intermediate Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Development,DE-FG02-01ER83345,DOE,DOE,SBIR,2001,1,99083.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Vince Yevoli,"Vice President, Marketing",8605991100,vyvoli@yardney.com,Thomas J. Barbarich,Research Scientist,8605991100,tbarbarich@yardney.com,"65737 Lithium-ion batteries offer several performance advantages over conventional lead-acid batteries including higher specific energy (~ 150 Wh/kg), energy density (>325 Wh/L), and cycle life. While these advantages have lead to the recent growth of lithium-ion technology for various consumer applications, the high cost of these batteries has prevented their commercial use in electric and hybrid vehicles. The cost of the electrolyte, at over a $300/L, is one of the cost drivers in a Li-ion cell. To lower the cost of these electrolytes, this project will develop inexpensive, conductive salts for lithium-ion battery systems. In Phase I, the salts will be synthesized from inexpensive starting materials which are commercially available in high purity. These salts will be prepared with minimal downstream purification, further reducing the cost of manufacturing these salts. Performance characteristics will include high specific conductivity, electrochemical stability, and thermal stability when substituted into current lithium-ion cell chemistries. Commercial Applications And Other Benefits as described by awardee: The salts should find use in using lithium-ion technology, including electric and hybrid automobiles, computers, cell phones, and satellites"
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2000,1,99989.00,"ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC",ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES,1210 PONTIAC AVE,CRANSTON,RI,02920,No,No,No,,,4014672223,ABACUS@THEABACUSGROUP.COM,Amanda L. Graham,,,,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2000,1,99437.00,"ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC",ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES,1210 PONTIAC AVE,CRANSTON,RI,02920,No,No,No,,,4014672223,SBANKS@THEABACUSGROUP.COM,Sara M. Banks,,,,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,STTR,2000,1,99999.00,"ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC",ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES,1210 PONTIAC AVE,CRANSTON,RI,02920,No,No,No,,,,,Milagros Rosal,Principal Investigator,4014672223,,N/A
PREVENTING CHILDHOOD INJURY WITH AN INTERACTIVE WEB SITE,1R43CE000141-01,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2000,1,99813.00,"ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC",ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES,1210 PONTIAC AVE,CRANSTON,RI,02920,No,No,No,,,,dahern@theabacusgroup.com,Caroline S. Alday,,4014444515,CAROLINE_ALDAY@BROWN.EDU,N/A
N/A,F33615-00-C-2053,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2000,1,99527.00,"ADVANCED COMPONENTS & MATERIALS, INC.",1360 HIGH HAWK ROAD,,EAST GREENWICH,RI,02818 1361,No,No,No,Amitava Datta,President,4018855064,adatta@worldnet.att.net,Amitava Datta,President,4018855064,adatta@worldnet.att.net,N/A
N/A,00-33610-8884,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2000,1,50322.00,American Biophysics Corporation,2240 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,02818,No,No,No,Emma A. Durand,Vice President Engineering,4018843500,MosquitoMagnet.com,Alan J. Grant,,4018843500,AGrant@MosquitoMagnet.com,N/A
N/A,DAAB07-00-C-J853,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2000,1,69865.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,,,,,William H. Weedon,,6179241009,,N/A
N/A,F19628-00-C-0058,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2000,1,100000.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,William H. Weedon,President,4018853910,whw@appliedradar.com,William H. Weedon,President,4018853910,whw@appliedradar.com,N/A
N/A,N65540-00-C-0072,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2000,1,69385.00,"DEEGAN RESEARCH GROUP, INC.",39 Porter Lane,,Portsmouth,RI,02871,No,No,No,Thierry Deegan,President,4016831799,DRG@IDS.NET,Thierry Deegan,President,4016831799,DRG@IDS.NET,N/A
N/A,F08630-99-C-0092,DOD,USAF,STTR,2000,1,0.00,EVANS CAPACITOR COMPANY,33 Eastern Avenue,,East Providence,RI,02914,No,No,No,David A. Evans,,4014345600,,David A. Evans,,4014345600,,N/A
Innovative Manufacturing Methods for Diamond Indenters,,DOC,DOC,SBIR,2000,2,297000.00,"Gilmore Diamond Tools, Inc.",43 Roger Williams Avenue,,East Providence,RI,02916,No,No,No,,,,,Michael Mihalec,President,4014380717,,N/A
N/A,F33615-00-M-6039,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2000,1,97004.00,"Gnosys, Inc.",198 Broadway,,Providence,RI,02903,No,No,Yes,James Panagos,President,6179248342,jpanagos@world.std.com,James Panagos,President,6179248342,jpanagos@world.std.com,N/A
N/A,F29601-00-C-0164,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2000,1,70000.00,"HOPE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.",185 East Main Rd.,,Little Compton,RI,02837,Yes,No,No,Edelgard Morse,President,6173759543,tfmorse@buledu,Valerii Kozlov,Senior Research Scientist,6173759543,vkozlov@bu.edu,N/A
N/A,00-33610-8871,USDA,USDA,SBIR,2000,1,69420.00,"J. L. Anderson Associates, Inc.",65 Robinson Street,,Narragansett,RI,02882,No,No,No,James L. Anderson,President,4017838899,jla@seafoodreport.com,Josue Martinez-Garmendia,,4017838899,sm@seafoodreport.com,N/A
N/A,N00024-00-C-4081,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2000,1,0.00,"JAMES R. MODEN, INC.",32 Jane Lane,,Bristol,RI,02809,No,No,No,,,,,"James R. Moden, P. E.",,4012532653,,N/A
N/A,N00024-00-C-4081,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2000,2,589092.00,"JAMES R. MODEN, INC.",32 Jane Lane,,Bristol,RI,02809,No,No,No,,,,,"James R. Moden, P. E.",,4012532653,,N/A
N/A,N00178-99-C-1047,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2000,1,0.00,"KVH INDUSTRIES, INC.",50 Enterprise Center,,Middletown,RI,02842 5279,No,No,No,,,,,Sid Bennett,,7084443850,,N/A
N/A,N00178-99-C-1047,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2000,2,599165.00,"KVH INDUSTRIES, INC.",50 Enterprise Center,,Middletown,RI,02842 5279,No,No,No,,,,,Sid Bennett,,7084443850,,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2000,1,135000.00,"MULTICELL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.","MULTICELL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.",701 GEORGE WASHIGNTON HIGHWAY,LINCOLN,RI,02865,No,No,No,,,4017387560,JAUREGUI@MULTICELLASSOCIATES.COM,Hugo O. Jauregui,,,,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2000,1,100000.00,"MULTICELL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.","MULTICELL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.",701 GEORGE WASHIGNTON HIGHWAY,LINCOLN,RI,02865,No,No,No,,,4017387560,TRENKLER@MULTICELLASSOCIATES.COM,Hugo O. Jauregui,,,,N/A
N/A,N68335-01-C-0013,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2000,1,69913.00,Pilgrim Screw Corp.,120 Sprague Street,,Providence,RI,02907,No,No,No,Geoffrey Grove,President,4809172500,geoffgrove@pilgrimscrew.com,Jerry E. Attanasio,Director of R&D,4809172500,jattanasio01@snet.net,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2000,1,114434.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4018744109,JANICEPRO@AOL.COM,Sara S. Johnson,,,,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2000,1,119306.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4018744109,JANICEPRO@AOL.COM,Deborah A. Levesque,,,,"Not Available This proposal addresses the development of a new and innovative dynamically controlled vapor diffusion system that will provide precise control of pre- and post-nucleation growth. Subtopic 11.01, Commercial Microgravity Research, is addressed in that a ne"
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2000,1,0.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4018744109,JANICEPRO@AOL.COM,Sara S. Johnson,,,,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,2000,2,143016.00,"PRO-CHANGE BEHAVIOR SYSTEMS, INC.",1174 Kingstown Road,Unit 101,South Kingstown,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4018744109,JANICEPRO@AOL.COM,Sara S. Johnson,,,,N/A
N/A,N00014-00-M-0112,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,2000,1,69633.00,"PYRCON, LLC",165 Dean Knauss Drive,,Narragansett,RI,02882,No,No,No,James H. Miller,President,4018746540,miller@pyrcon.com,Thomas Weber,Principal Systems Eng.,4018746540,weber@pyrcon.com,N/A
N/A,9983485,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2000,1,0.00,RITEC Inc,"60 Alhambra Road, Suite 5",,Warwick,RI,02886-0144,No,No,No,Mark McKenna,Vice President,4017383660,mark@RitecInc.com,Mark McKenna,,4017383660,,N/A
N/A,9983485,NSF,NSF,SBIR,2000,2,400000.00,RITEC Inc,"60 Alhambra Road, Suite 5",,Warwick,RI,02886-0144,No,No,No,Mark McKenna,Vice President,4017383660,mark@RitecInc.com,Mark McKenna,,4017383660,,N/A
"Thin Film, Flexible Space Battery",F29601-00-C-0036,DOD,USAF,SBIR,2000,2,749547.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,,,,,Grant M. Ehrlich,,8605991100,,N/A
N/A,DAAD17-00-C-0067,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,2000,1,119776.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,,,,,"Grant M. Ehrlich, Ph. D",,8605991100,,N/A
N/A,NAS9 99148,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2000,1,0.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Tom Murphy,President,8605991100,Not Available,Grant Ehrlich,Research Scientist,,ehrlich@yardney.com,N/A
N/A,NAS9 99148,NASA,NASA,SBIR,2000,2,595200.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Tom Murphy,President,8605991100,Not Available,Grant Ehrlich,Research Scientist,,ehrlich@yardney.com,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1999,1,0.00,"ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC",ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES,1210 PONTIAC AVE,CRANSTON,RI,02920,No,No,No,,,,,,,,,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1999,2,749962.00,"ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC",ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES,1210 PONTIAC AVE,CRANSTON,RI,02920,No,No,No,,,,,,,,,N/A
N/A,,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1999,1,0.00,"American Industrial Casting,",940 Wellington Ave,,Cranston,RI,02910,No,No,No,,,,,,,,,N/A
N/A,,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1999,2,462492.00,"American Industrial Casting,",940 Wellington Ave,,Cranston,RI,02910,No,No,No,,,,,,,,,N/A
MEMS-Switched Reconfigurable Multi-Band Phased-Array Antennas for UAVs,99SN-117,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1999,1,98730.00,"Applied Radar, Inc.",315 Commerce Park Road,,North Kingstown,RI,02852-,No,No,No,,,,,William Weedon III,,6179241009,,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1999,1,0.00,"Cell Based Delivery, Inc.","275 Westminster, Suite 400",,Providence,RI,02903,No,No,No,,,,,,,,,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1999,2,692798.00,"Cell Based Delivery, Inc.","275 Westminster, Suite 400",,Providence,RI,02903,No,No,No,,,,,,,,,N/A
EPITOPE-DRIVEN HIV VACCINE TARGETING DENDRITIC CELLS,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1999,1,100000.00,"EPIVAX, INC.",146 CLIFFORD STREET,,PROVIDENCE,RI,-,No,No,No,,,4012722123,MARTINB@IDS.NET,Anne S. Degroot,,,,"Not Available A hapten based upon the molecular structure of a metabolite of sulfur mustard (HD), namley bis(2-acetylamino-2-carboxyethylthio)ethyl) sulfoximine, (dimercapturate)2S(O)Nhwill be synthesized. This will be conjugated with proteins to yield the antigenic haptens (dimercapturate)2S(O)N-HSA,BSA and-PTG. Preliminary studies will be carried out using the know (CH3)2S(O)NH. A phosphorus atom marker unit will be covalently attached to each hapten protein conjugate and the hapten: protein ratio will be determined by 31p NMR. A hapten will be synthesized using the terminal carboxyl group of the same metabolic substrate as the site for conjugation to BSA. The antigenic haptens will be used for the production of monoclonal antibodies, which in tLLm will be applied to the development of a noninvasive immunodiagnostic test for exposure to sulfur mustard. Such a test device would be use fill for the detection of sulfur mustards used in chemical warfare agents in combat or by terrorists. Commercial applications would result from use of the detection device forensically by local, state and federal agencies. BENEFITS: Device for sulfur mustard(HD) fits a need for early detection of this chemical agent in the battlefield as well as in terrorist activities. This device would be acquired by local, state, and other government agencies. Foreign governments involved in combatting terrorism would be candidates for this method."
Innovative Manufacturing Methods for Diamond Indenters,,DOC,DOC,SBIR,1999,1,75000.00,"Gilmore Diamond Tools, Inc.",43 Roger Williams Avenue,,East Providence,RI,02916,No,No,No,,,,,Michael Mihalec,,4014380717,,N/A
Immersive Wargamer,99IF-362,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1999,1,96185.00,"Gnosys, Inc.",198 Broadway,,Providence,RI,02903,No,No,Yes,,,,,James Panagos,,6179248342,,N/A
Acoustic Bandgap Materials and Devices,99SB20069,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,1999,1,98949.00,LASER FARE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY GROUP,"LanRex Industrial Park, One Industrial Drive South",,Smithfield,RI,02917,No,No,No,,,,,Paul Jacobs,,4017377900,,N/A
Handheld One-Way Voice Communication System,99SB20016,DOD,DARPA,SBIR,1999,1,98255.00,"MARINE ACOUSTICS, INC.",809 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,,,,,Ace Sarich,,4107575321,,N/A
N/A,,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1999,2,569880.00,"MARINE ACOUSTICS, INC.",809 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,,,,,William T Ellison,,4018482995,,N/A
"Ultra-Narrow Linewidth, Tunable Single-Frequency Ytterbium Fiber Laser",99-226,DOD,MDA,SBIR,1999,1,57907.00,"OPTIGAIN, INC.",350 Columbia Street PO Box 3732,,Peace Dale,RI,02883,No,Yes,No,,,,,Shijun Jiang,,4017839222,,N/A
N/A,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1999,2,327580.00,PSYCH PRODUCTS PRESS,PSYCH PRODUCTS PRESS,BOX 228,EAST GREENWICH,RI,02818,No,No,No,,,4012770707,,Mattia jill i,,,,N/A
"Thin Film, Flexible Space Battery",99NM-241,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1999,1,99276.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,,,,,Grant Ehrlich,,8605991100,,N/A
A Mixed Oxide Negative Electrode Material for Li-ion Batteries,NAS9 99023,NASA,NASA,SBIR,1999,1,69819.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Tom Murphy,President,8605991100,Not Available,Grant Ehrlich,Research Scientist,,ehrlich@yardney.com,N/A
ENCAPSULATED TRANSFECTED CELLS AS A THERAPY FOR MS,,HHS,HHS,STTR,1998,1,100000.00,"Cytotherapeutics, Inc.",DEPT. OF PATHOLOGY,,Providence,RI,02901,No,No,No,,,0,,Hickey,,6036504850,,N/A
Improved Capacitor Using Amorphous RuO2,,DOD,USAF,STTR,1998,1,70083.00,EVANS CAPACITOR COMPANY,33 Eastern Avenue,,East Providence,RI,02914,No,No,No,David A. Evans,,4146456,,David A. Evans,,4446456,,"Amorphous hydrous ruthenium oxide(Ru02.xH20A) has a specific capacitance at least two times larger than any other known capacitor materials. An object of this proposal is to demostrate the feasibility of producing shock-hardened RuO2. H2O based electrochemical capacitors suitable for use in power sources for advanced weapon system applications. A 25 V, 150 mF shock-hardened electrochemical capacitor having an ESR less than 0.2 will be constructed and delivered. Another object is to determine if an amorphous Ru02 film cathode could be used in an improved version of a hybrid electrochemical-electrolytic capacitor. Amorphous Ru02 films will be used in order to increased the capacitance of the cathode electrode. A 25 V, 30 mF tantalum anode hermetic hybrid capacitor having an ESR of less than 0.050 and a 6V, 10 mf aluminum anode hybrid capacitor will be fabricated and delivered for further evaluation and testing. The project will measure capacitor performance imcluding capacitance, ESR, and maximum current density under different temperatures, and cycle life."
"Safe, Environmentally Benign, Low Cost, Wakeless Monopropellants",,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,1998,1,63208.00,"JAMES R. MODEN, INC.",32 Jane Lane,,Bristol,RI,02809,No,No,No,,,0,,"James R. Moden, P. E.",,4012532653,,"The end product of this proposal is an improved monopropellant which is safe, non toxic, water soluble, very low cost, energetic, environmentally benign and wakeless. Calculations show that a stoichiometric blend of the water soluble constituents produce a monopropellant having an energy density of 1100 Btu/# (British thermal units per pound) and an adiabatic flame temperature of 2300 F (Fahrenheit). This monopropellant is projected to be insensitive to impact up to and including the shock imposed from military rifle fire. Experimental determinations and verifications of physical properties and of stability of the monopropellant are proposed in Phase I. Drop weight impact testing will demonstrate the insensitivity of the monopropellant to mechanical shock at levels below those encountered in blasting cap tests. Also in Phase I a proprietary technique will be demonstrated which prevents any possible detonation should the monopropellant rise above a selected temperature during the most severe test of Mil-Std-2105, the cook off or bonfire test. In the Phase I Option, preliminary combustion tests are proposed in the Alternate Fuels Combustion Test Fixture. Also, scaled safety tests will be performed as precursors to the full scale Mil-Std-2105 tests scheduled in Phase II."
Antennas for Satellite Communications-on-the-Move,,DOD,ARMY,SBIR,1998,1,99355.00,"KVH INDUSTRIES, INC.",50 Enterprise Center,,Middletown,RI,02842 5279,No,No,No,,,0,,Jeff Hawes,,4018473327,,"KVH Industries proposes to determine the feasibility of integrating its commercially (COTS) available, low cost, marine mobile, rate stabilized on-the-move antenna system with new `smart antenna' electronic array technology to produce a solid state, highly ruggedized, flat panel land mobile antenna system capable of multi-band satellite cornmunications. Recent developments in adaptive antenna technologies have been developed and successfully applied for antennas in L-band communications. Similar to 'phased array' technology, these adapative electronic arrays provide electronically steerable azimuth and elevation coverage by generating a number of discrete narrow beams using high speed digital switching technology. The design, manufacturing techniques and digital switching offer dramatically lower production cost and improved performance repeatability over existing phased array technology. Combining KVH's proven experience of rate stabilization and closed loop tracking, and adapting the design of military applications, promises to create the first truly affordable mil qualified, flat panel, land mobile multi-band system. KVH will add to the basic flat panel array technology a three axis stowable actuator based tilt drive for low satellite elevation useage. The anticipated price point of the 2 er prototype system will be less than $10,000. BENEFITS: This research and development effort will adapt state-of-the-art miniaturized electronics sensor and adapative antenna technology to provide a lower cost and size full duplex satellite on-the-move communications antenna. As KVH's ASAP (Active Stabilized Antenna Pedestal) has proven (1995/96/97 sales of $12 mil. & 6000 unit qty.) such a device would have broad applications for improved land mobile satellite communications. The proposed system will have multi-use applications in military operations, law enforcement, other government and commercial communication with internet communication type capability at the end of Phase II."
Spaced-Based Asset Tracking and Inventory System,,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,1998,1,69996.00,"KVH INDUSTRIES, INC.",50 Enterprise Center,,Middletown,RI,02842 5279,No,No,No,,,0,,Ronald R.t. Paradis,,4018473327,,"KVH Industries proposes to prototype and deliver a unique space-based asset tracking and inventory system. The proposed system will integrate off-the-shelf communications GPS and a KVH designed digital compass navigation system, TACNAV. The KVH design will be capable of providing instantaneous position updates using the now fully operational Generation III Inmarst D/D+ technology. The integrated TACNAV compass/odometer based system will ensure 100% position availability, not susceptible to the effects of terrain masking, jamming or GPS outage. The KVH design will have an open architecture enabling easy adaptability for use with Orbcomm, Starsys and be integrated with the U.S. Army's SINGARS radio communications system. The proposed KVH design will be inherently low cost, based on commercial ruggedized hardware, capable of being fully integrated with emerging vehicle and vessel tracking systems for the U.S. Military. The KVH prototype system will take advantage of existing technologies but will also address the benefit of being able to integrate with the Applique technology of the U.S. Army's Force XXI. Additionally, the proposed KVH design will have multi-use applications in both tethered and untethered over the road vehicle, commercial marine shipping and rail car tracking"
High Accuracy GPfog Azimuth and Attitude Sensor,,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,1998,1,69995.00,"KVH INDUSTRIES, INC.",50 Enterprise Center,,Middletown,RI,02842 5279,No,No,No,,,0,,Ron Paradis,,4018473327,,"KVH Industries proposes to deliver a high precision GPfog azimuth and attitude sensing system based on fusing three low cost sensor technologies: ultra short baseline carrier phase measurement GPS utilizing low cost GPS chip technology; uniquely affordable three-axis KVH E-Core Fiber Optic Gyros (FOGs); and a micro-machined commercially available accelerometer sensor package. The fiber optic rate sensors will be fused with GPS azimuth/attitude measurements and accelerometer inputs to increase system bandwidth and robustness and to provide immunity to short term GPS outages. During platform motion, the proposed system will use the change in position inputs from multiple low cost GPS chips to calculate a backup azimuth input to the carrier phase measurement, including stored heading backup during vehicle stops. The proposed three axis attitude and azimuth system will deliver better than 0.4 RMS degree accuracy at a per-unit parts and labor cost below $2,000 (sell cost under $7,000) in small quantities. KVH's proven experience in GPS product fusion (KVH GPS/Compass TACNAV and GPS/FOG Continuous Positioning System), combined with our low cost, robust, low drift FOG technology, make KVH uniquely qualified to solve the solicited non-magnetic high accuracy azimuth requirement."
Advanced Analytic Sonic Boom Underwater Propagation Analysis,,DOD,USAF,SBIR,1998,1,97894.00,"MARINE ACOUSTICS, INC.",809 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,,,0,,William T. Ellison,,4018482995,,"Federal regulations require that USAF supersonic, subsonic and launch vehicle flight operations be assessed as to possible effects to the near-shore environment. Current modeling capability for this topic is lacking in key areas: reliability of results, environmental assessment requirements, field validation, biological nature of the receiver, and accounting for the key interface boundary conditions that must be satisfied for realistic results. Marine Acoustics, Inc. teamed with Cambridge Acoustical Associates, Inc. proposes a major review of the current state of sonic boom penetration models for realistic ocean environments, and the development of a test plan for experimental verification of the recommended analytic approach. Current analytical models and predictions of subsea sonic boom penetration will be reviewed with a focus on their underlying assumptions and functional dependence on physical parameters. This review will include the supporting database. Subsequent to this review, test requirements for measuring airborne sonic boom penetration into subsurface ocean waters as a function of depth, environmental acoustic parameters and underwater boundary (surface, bottom and volume) conditions will be established. A state-of-the-art review of required instrumentation to meet the requirements will be completed, and a comprehensive test plan for execution under Phase II will be developed."
COMPREHENSIVE OUTCOME SCALE FOR OUTPATIENT PSYCHIATRY,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1998,1,99999.00,PSYCH PRODUCTS PRESS,PSYCH PRODUCTS PRESS,BOX 228,EAST GREENWICH,RI,02818,No,No,No,,,0,,"Mattia, Jill I",,4012770707,,N/A
SBIR Phase I: Acoustic Microcavitation Assisted Fine Cleaning of Post-Chemical Mechanical Plana,,NSF,NSF,SBIR,1998,1,100000.00,RITEC Inc,"60 Alhambra Road, Suite 5",,Warwick,RI,02886-0144,No,No,No,,,4017383660,,Mark Mckenna,,4017383660,,N/A
Drop Out Computer Training Options Research (DOCTOR) CD Rom Products Development,,ED,ED,SBIR,1998,1,50000.00,SEA CORP,62 Johnny Cake Hill,Aquidneck Corporate Park,Middletown,RI,02842-5639,No,No,No,,,0,,,,0,,N/A
A Mixed Metal Oxide Anode Material for High Energy Density Li-ion Batteries,,DOE,DOE,SBIR,1998,1,74980.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,Dr. Thomas B. Reddy,Corporate Vice President,8605991100,,Dr. Grant M. Ehrlich,Research Scientist,8605991100,,"50129-98-I
A Mixed Metal Oxide Anode Material for High Energy Density Li-ion Batteries--Yardney Technical Products, Inc., 82 Mechanic Street, Pawcatuck, CT 06379-2154;
(860) 599-1100
Dr. Grant M. Ehrlich, Principal Investigator
Dr. Thomas B. Reddy, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-98ER82717
Amount: $74,980
Viable electric or hybrid vehicles require improved batteries which offer greater capacity, cycle life, and power capability with reduced size and weight. The most energy dense rechargeable batteries currently available are lithium (Li-ion) batteries. A limiting component of Li-ion batteries is the capacity, stability, and rate capability of the electrode materials, in particular the anode material. This project will develop a novel, high capacity mixed metal oxide Li-ion anode material and demonstrate the material with a high capacity LiCoxNil-xO2 cathode material in a Li-ion battery. The scale-ability of the proposed prismatic design will be demonstrated and prototype cells with capacity up to 100Amp-hour will be fabricated. The cells will incorporate advanced materials to minimize cell weight and volume while maximizing the electrochemical performance. The cells will be tested to enable evaluation for electric vehicle applications. Phase I will develop a novel high energy density, mixed metal oxide anode material and a Li-ion battery which utilizes this material. Mixed metal oxides will be synthesized and evaluated and anode materials will be developed using optimal oxides. Prismatic 3Amp-hour Li-ion cells will be fabricated and tested to demonstrate the electrical performance possible with the materials developed in the prismatic design. Ternary electrolytes with extended high and low temperature capability will also be incorporated into the design.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: This technology will be developed for electric and hybrid vehicles. Other applications include video cameras, computers, cell phones and radios. Medical applications include portable defibrillators, drug delivery units, and neurological stimulators for chronic pain treatment. Additional applications include electric lawn mowers, portable vacuum cleaners, and lighted displays._"
A High Perfromance Lithium Battery Using An Alloy Anode,,NASA,NASA,SBIR,1998,2,590384.00,"Yardney Technical Products, Inc.",2000 South County Trail,,East Greenwich,RI,-,No,No,No,,,8605991100,,Grant M. Ehrlich,RESEARCH SCIENTIST,0,,N/A
Comprehensive Occupational Safety Training (Cost),"1 R43 OH03355-01,",HHS,HHS,SBIR,1997,2,644294.00,"ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC",ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES,1210 PONTIAC AVE,CRANSTON,RI,02920,No,No,No,,,,,Mark Alavosius,,40167,,"Work related injuries and illnesses have risen to their highest level in ten years. Recent Departmestatistics indicate that a total of 6.8 million cases were reported in 1992 at a rate of 8.9 cases pfinancial cost of occupational injuries are in $60 billion range and include such things as medicallegal fees, and lost productivity. These data provide compelling evidence that work-related injuriesassociated costs are a massive economic and social problem. Interestingly, the incidence of injury iemployers whose survival is most threatened by the high cost of worker's compensation. Ironically, shave the highest accident incidence rate because, in part, they are least able to afford to integrattechnologies into their operations. These investigators have developed and piloted a comprehensive otraining program (COST) targeted for small businesses that typically have serious safety problems. Tbehaviorally based training procedure that guides company safety personnel through a systematic procexistent safety management and developing a comprehensive strategy to control hazards and establishdate, the 48 companies that have completed this prototype program have realized a significant reductrelated accidents and injuries. In the current application, these investigators propose to further aprogram and refine the program materials. The ultimate goal of the project is twofold: 1) is to makeemployers a commercially viable and tested behaviorally-based training program that can have an immeimpact on work related injuries/illnesses and their associated costs, 2) prepare for a large scale rconducted in Phase II research."
How to evaluate informatio from providers,,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1997,2,741963.00,"ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC",ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES,1210 PONTIAC AVE,CRANSTON,RI,02920,No,No,No,,,,,,,0,,N/A
COMPREHENSIVE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY TRAINING (COST),2R44OH003355-02,HHS,HHS,SBIR,1997,2,333980.00,"ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC",ABACUS MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGIES,1210 PONTIAC AVE,CRANSTON,RI,02920,No,No,No,,,,dahern@theabacusgroup.com,Mark Alavosius,,7757844040,MALAVOSIUS@AOL.COM,N/A
Submarine Low Cost Littoral Water Sonar Passive Localization System,,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,1997,2,749968.00,"Applied Measurement Systems,",1100 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,,,,,Barry L. Douglass,,3059250200,,"The new joint mission scenarios and stealth interdiction objectives for the U.S. Navy have resulted in the need for improved sensor systems for operations in the littoral environment. A High Frequency Towed Array (HFRA) sonar system, operating in the same frequency band as hull mounted systems, provides better detection, classification, and localization capabilities,and reduces ship maneuverability restrictions relative to the existing towed array systems. The proposed HFTA also provides collateral application in that the system can be deployed from submarines or surface ships for tactical or survey missions, or moored horizontally or vertically to the ocean floor for monitoring marine traffic and environmental conditions. The Phase I analysis and HFTA conceptual design efforts will be performed based on over 25 years of direct experience with towed array system development and our recent delivery of a high frequency towed measurement array system to the Navy. The HFTA design will rely heavily on NDI and OOTS components employed in the towed measurement array resulting in a low risk development program. Phase !I will then develop an Advance Development Model (ADM) system with the lowest possible cost for full scale, at-sea performance demonstration and verification."
"Low Cost, Fiber Optic Array, Using Continuous Component Construction",,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,1997,1,69920.00,"Applied Measurement Systems,",1100 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,,,,,Robert O. Hauptmann,,8604435303,,"Significant advances have been made over the past few years in all optical arrays. Low cost optical sensors have been produced and demonstrated along with optical telemetry capable of multiplexing many sensors onto a single optical fiber. Although the new optical sensors and telemetry designs have come a long way toward making optical arrays an economic reality, the array construction they are housed in has not. It is essentially the same as used in existing fleet array design for the past 10 years. These existing designs end up increasing the number of splices needed in the optical array, place much higher mechanical loading on the internal components and increase the overall cost of the array. The optical array construction technique proposed here is an innovative design which will completely automate much of the optical array construction. It provides for continuous array construction with no discrete bulkheads, machine wrapping of open cell foam used to position internal components, machine wrapping of optical fibers which carry telemetrized hydrophone signals, high radial strength composite spiral ring for increased handling reliability and a continuously extruded outer hose wall. This construction technique features low cost but maintains high reliability in a low flow noise construction."
Helmsman's Recording Accelerometer (HRA),,DOD,SOCOM,SBIR,1997,1,6170.00,"Applied Measurement Systems,",1100 Aquidneck Avenue,,Middletown,RI,02842,No,No,No,,,,,Philip V. Duckett,,4018490727,,"Special Operations Forces (SOF) require a real time display of appr opriate data to allow the helmsman to access the damage potential to his cargo (equipment/personnel) and support his decision relative to speed and course selection when operating in rough water. Furthermore, maintenance support personnel need quantitative data to support design decisions and maintenance activities. This proposal presents an affordable solution to the display and recording of peak acceleration data. Furthermore, AMSI defines a program to acquire data to relate the acceneration levels with force and strain data to evaluate habitability and hull fatigue for use by maintenance activities. Within the SBIR Phase I budget, AMSI will integrate accelerometers, load cells, and strain gauges with a rugged HRA test bed data acquisition system to define components and measurement locations based on onboard measurements conducted at sea off Tampa during the 10 meter RIB runoff. With the miniat rization of electronics, high density RAM, and advent of signal processing chips it is squite feasible to develop a low cost robust acceleration measurement and display. Once the system design is finalized (Phase II), follow-on systems are predicted to cost less than $10K per copy including the sensors, displays, and computer components."
Site-specific Recombinases For Use In Hybrid,,USDA,USDA,SBIR,1997,1,55000.00,"HybriGene, Inc.",530 Liberty Lane,,West Kingston,RI,02892,No,No,No,,,,,Dr. hong luo,,0,,"The objective of this project is to evaluate the efficacy of the FLP/FRT site-specific recombinase inexcising a transgenic tapetum-specific promoter driving an inverted (antisense) Arabidopsis fertilitygene, bcl1. Plants containing the antisense of bcl1 (flanked by FRT sites) will be male sterile and whencrossed to plants containing the FLP site-specific recombinase, FLP should excise the sterility gene thusrestoring fertility and producing a hybrid. In addition, the relative effectiveness of different structuralalterations in the FRT sites will be assessed with respect to the efficiency of transgene excisions. If thisFLP/FRT system functions at sufficient efficiencies, it will confirm the feasibility that it can be used asa new method for making hybrid plants.During Phase II of this SBIR, it will be our intention to use the same system, if it proves to be feasibleduring Phase I research, for the development of corn hybrids."
Triaxial Fluxgate Azimuth Sensor with Three-Dimensional Autocalibration Capability,,DOD,NAVY,SBIR,1997,2,591022.00,"KVH INDUSTRIES, INC.",50 Enterprise Center,,Middletown,RI,02842 5279,No,No,No,,,,,Arent Kits Van Heyningen,,4018473327,,"Crucial to development of improved artillery capabilities is the fielding of tools to assist forward observers and spotter in target designation and fire direction. Notwithstanding its reliability, the conventional lensatic compass leaves much to be desired. The needle aligns itself with the local magnetic field, is attracted by nearby ferromagnetic masses, and can be tilted only a few degrees off level before significant azimuth errors arise. The lensatic compass is an analog device, thus azimuth cannot be transmitted electronically. Other pointing technologies are available but none is appropriate to the need. KVH Industries proposes to complete design of a miniature high accuracy azimuth sensor (HASS) using a strapdown triaxial digital fluxgate sensor, inclinometer and microprocessor controller. The design will demonstrate accuracy of 0.5 degrees or better after calibration over 45 degree tilt at up to 80 degrees magnetic dip angle. The focus of the Phase I effort will be to demonstrate a three-dimensional autocalibration capability. KVH offers to deliver a proof-of-principle breadboard demonstrator with PC-based three-dimensional autocalibration to the government for test and evaluation. We will also explore the feasibility of integrating the sensor element directly onto a silicon IC for miniaturization and cost reduction."